Barbados, known as the Land of Flying Fish, is a top vacation destination in the Caribbean thanks to its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and scrumptious cuisine. Barbadian food reflects a vibrant mix of African, Indian, European, and Caribbean influences that have been passed down for generations. When it comes to food, Barbados is definitely not the place to hold back. Discover some foods you need to try while visiting Barbados.

Flying Fish and Cou Cou

Barbados’s national dish is flying fish and cou cou, and you cannot leave without trying this iconic meal. The flying fish is usually filleted, seasoned, pan-fried, steamed, and served with cou cou, a mixture of cornmeal, okra, and salt that resembles a soft polenta. This meal is a staple in many Barbadian households and is often served on special occasions, such as Independence Day.

Macaroni Pie

Macaroni pie is a staple comfort food in Barbados, but it’s not the same as the mac and cheese commonly found in other parts of the world. This dish contains macaroni noodles with a creamy mixture of eggs, butter, cheddar cheese, and evaporated milk. The pie is baked until it is crispy on top and creamy and delicious inside. You can find macaroni pie in almost every restaurant on the island, from local food shacks to high-end restaurants.

Fish Cakes

Fish cakes are a favorite snack in Barbados and can be found almost everywhere on the island, from street vendors to beachside bars. These cakes are made using salted cod and various combinations of herbs, peppers, onions, and flour, then fried until they’re crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Fishcakes are often served with bread rolls and are a perfect snack while on the go.

Bajan Black Cake

Bajan black cake is a traditional Christmas cake in Barbados, but you can find it year-round in bakeries around the island. It’s a rich and moist fruitcake made with raisins, cherries, prunes, currants, and lots of spices, then it’s soaked in rum for several weeks. After baking, it’s topped with a layer of marzipan and iced with a rich, sweet fondant. Every family has their recipe for Bajan black cake, but it’s typically served as a dessert during Christmas or other special occasions.

Conkies

Conkies are a sweet Barbadian specialty, made of cornmeal mixed with grated pumpkin, coconut milk, raisins, sugar, and spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. The mixture is then steamed in banana leaves, giving them a distinct flavor and texture. People typically eat conkies around November when they celebrate Barbados’s Independence Day and the ancestors who fought for their freedom.

This island is a foodie’s paradise, and travelers should not miss out on these foods to try while visiting Barbados. These dishes are just a few of the outstanding foods available in Barbados, but they perfectly represent the country’s richness in culture and tradition. If you end up falling in love with the island during your visit, contact Terra Luxury to see our luxury homes in Barbados. You can find the ideal property and enjoy a relaxing new lifestyle on an island full of delicious food.