Caribbean cuisine is truly a celebration of an entire region. Surrounded by the sea, the Caribbean is heavily influenced by the flavors of both land and sea. Fresh seafood, savory meats, tropical fruits, and lush vegetation all contribute their own unique flavors to this remarkable cuisine. When considering what to include in a menu inspired by the Caribbean, it is often helpful to choose items that will not only be savored by those who are familiar with the flavors but also make for a great introduction to those who may be new to the cuisine. Read on for some great ideas for a Caribbean restaurant menu.
A Tasty Start to the Day
While many may associate breakfast food with buttered toast, waffles, or pancakes, Caribbean-style breakfast focuses on bold and savory flavors. Saltfish and ackee with fried dumplings is a very popular breakfast that is commonly served in the Caribbean and would make for an excellent choice to include on a menu. The saltfish, also known as cod, provides a light and flaky element to the dish and is typically seasoned with a mixture of jerk, curry, and peppers. Ackee, a type of tropical fruit that is abundant in the Caribbean, provides a mild, nutty flavor and easily takes on the flavors of whatever it cooks with. Fried dumplings on the side will have patrons asking for more, as their rich flavor makes the perfect complement to the meal.
A Lunchtime Favorite
When deciding on a lunch menu that features Caribbean cuisine, no dish can compare to stew. The Caribbean region widely celebrates stews made from a plethora of ingredients, especially several different types of meat. Chicken, beef, goat, and fish are only a few of the many examples of types of stews that are consumed. Offering a tasty selection of stews will certainly be a welcome sight for patrons who can count on a filling meal that has all the flavors of the Caribbean region. A beef stew that may be popular, for example, could feature potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and herbs. Like many beef stews, this would make for a savory and hearty dish. Adding hot peppers will spice things up a bit and add a little kick that will surely be loved. As for a side dish, rice and beans always makes for a filling addition and compliments any type of stew that is served.
A Dinner To Impress
Offering a great variety of meats, vegetables, and sides for the dinner menu is an excellent way for patrons to learn more about and celebrate Caribbean cuisine. Since meats are widely consumed in this region, serving dishes that feature chicken, fish, and shrimp would be highly recommended for a well-rounded dinner menu. One popular dish that would be sure to become a favorite among patrons is a lime shrimp dinner, complete with a side of black beans and rice. The bold flavors of cilantro, cumin, lime juice, and curry will be a bold and flavorful choice for the shrimp dish, often cooked with tequila as well. This meal makes for a zesty and unforgettable culinary experience that will truly be a celebration of the senses.