Cayman Islands Tourism Association - Cayman Islands Local Food and Flavours

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Cayman Local Food and Flavours

Cayman, like many other Caribbean Islands, have some unique ingredients and dishes which you might not be used to from home! Below is a list of some unique Caribbean ingredients and flavours that you may come across when you visit Cayman. These are only a few of the different ingredients you may see on a menu in a Cayman restaraunt or at a local market. Perhaps now you will know what it is and whether you want to try it!

If you are feeling more adventurous, why not purchase some of these ingredients while visiting Cayman and try your hand at a recipe or two? We have included some great recipes from a local food blogger and food lover The Deep Dish.

CAYMAN STYLE: This is a food preparation technique. Usually the item (fish, chicken, shrimp, lobster) is lightly breaded, pan fried or sautéed and tossed in a light tomato sauce with sweet peppers and onions.

RECIPE: Cayman Style Fish

COCONUT: This very common and popular fruit might not seem that exotic, but it is in abundance n the Caribbean and used as flavour for many meals and drinks. There is nothing more refreshing on a hot Caribbean day thatn fresh coconut milk or perhaps creating your own coconut milk for a fresh Pina Colada. There is no shortage of tasty recipes for this ingredient.

RECIPE: Fresh Coconut Milk

BREADFRUIT: Despite its name, breadfruit does not have anything to do with bread. Generally, breadfruit is used in the same way as potato, so you will often find it in stews, fried or in salads. Breadfruit can only be eaten when cooked and can be used in place of any starchy vegetable, rice or pasta.

RECIPE: Breadfruit Salad

JERK: A style of cooking native to Jamaica in which meat (usually chicken or pork) is dry-rubbed or wet marinated with a very hot spice mixture. Key ingredients include scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, cloves, cinnamon, scallions, nutmeg, thyme, garlic, and salt. Although not typically Cayman it is a favourite with residents and a 'must try' when visiting the Caribbean.

RECIPE: Jerk Pork

We'll be sure to update you with more Cayman ingredients, flavours and recipes throughout this blog, but in the meantime if you want to learn more, why not visit one of the local markets and talk to the farmers to get their tips, tricks and secrets.

Farmers' Market, Camana Bay - every Wednesday 12:00md - 7:00pm

(cnr Market St & Forum Lane)

Market at the Grounds, Lower Valley - every Saturday 6:00am - 12:00md

(Agricultural Grounds, Lower Valley)

More locally inspired recipes check out The Deep Dish