What are the first three things that pop into your head when you think of Jamaica? I think it’s safe to assume that Bob Marley, Jamaican Jerk, and Montego Bay just might be in there somewhere. This breathtaking country in the Caribbean doesn’t only have beautiful views – the food is pretty gorgeous too.
Jamaica is yet another country with an almost perfect Caribbean climate (though it does get damaged from hurricanes at times). It’s sunny and warm, and the temperatures don’t vary greatly. It’s got the perfect environment for sweet, ripe, tropical fruit, and of course, seafood.
Originally inhabited by indigenous people from South America, the island was later taken over by the Spanish, and then the English in the seventeenth century. When the English came, the Spanish fled and left most of the African Slaves; many of the slaves escaped, and then fought the British in the eighteenth century. Jamaica has been independent from the British since 1962. Their current cuisine is influenced by all of these people who have inhabited Jamaica, and it is fantastically reflected in the country’s national motto: “Out of Many, One People.”
Now, over the last few weeks we’ve seen many similarities in the foods of the countries we’ve gone to, mostly because of the large Spanish influence. Jamaica, however, has a very unique cuisine; it’s practically pure fusion food. Popular dishes include: Ackee and Saltfish (Jamaica’s national dish!), Jamaican Spiced Bun, Curry Goat, Bula Cakes, and Gizzada.
Just to hold you over until next Wednesday, when a delicious Jamaican recipe will be featured, here’s a quick and easy recipe for Peanut Punch, a popular drink in Jamaica.
Peanut Punch
Serves 4
1 cup roasted peanuts (shelled, of course!)
3 cups Irish Moss (Irish Moss is a shake-like drink that is widely available in Jamaica, but if you don’t have it, use the recipe below)
OR…
1 cup roasted peanuts (still… shelled!)
3 cups cold water
1 can condensed milk
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Put all of the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. If you want a more peanutty flavor, add some peanut butter!
Stay tuned to Food Freeway – next Wednesday I’ll be featuring a yummy Jamaican recipe for you to try out! Do you have any Jamaican dishes that you just can’t resist? If so, let me know, and leave a comment below!