Savor Trinidad and Tobago: Top 10 Trini Dishes You Can’t-Miss

As someone from Trinidad & Tobago living abroad, one of the things I miss most about home is the food. From popular street food to hearty traditional dishes, Trinidad and Tobago’s local cuisine offers an exciting journey for the taste buds. Here’s a mouthwatering guide to my ten must-try Trini dishes that every visitor should savour.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

1. Doubles

Flavorful, filling, and beloved by locals, Doubles is Trinidad and Tobago’s iconic street food. This Trini dish consists of two pieces of fried bread (bara) filled with curried chickpeas (channa), topped with various sauces and chutneys, and optionally spiced with pepper or mango. It’s a must-try for its bold flavours and cultural significance.

2. Bake and Shark

Head to Maracas Beach for a taste of Bake and Shark, a famous beachside Trini dish. Crispy fried shark meat is served in a fried dough (bake) with various toppings, including lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pineapple, and a range of flavorful sauces like tamarind and garlic sauce. Each vendor has their unique twist, making it a delightful adventure to try different versions.

3. Pelau

A hearty and flavoured one-pot dish, Pelau is a favourite at gatherings and celebrations. This dish combines rice, pigeon peas, and meat (typically chicken or beef) seasoned with a variety of local herbs and spices (green seasoning). The caramelised sugar gives it a distinctive brown colour and a sweet undertone that complements the savoury flavours, offering a delightful variety of tastes in each bite.

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4. Callaloo

A delicious green leafy vegetable stew, Callaloo is a staple in Trinidadian cuisine. Made from dasheen leaves (taro leaves) or spinach cooked with okra and coconut milk and often flavoured with crab or salted meats, aka pigtail. Callaloo is nutritious and bursting with Caribbean flavours.

5. Roti

Derived from Indian influence, Roti in Trinidad and Tobago is a versatile and filling dish. Chiefly it consists of a soft flatbread filled with curried vegetables (aloo), chickpeas (channa), or meats such as chicken, goat, or beef. Additionally, Roti is often accompanied by various chutneys and condiments, allowing for a customisable dining experience.

6. Crab and Dumplings

Seafood lovers rejoice with Crab and Dumplings, a savoury seafood stew served with fluffy dumplings. Fresh crab is simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth with herbs and spices, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that showcases the islands’ bounty from the sea.

7. Pastelles

In addition, during the Christmas season, Pastelles are a cherished treat. These cornmeal pockets are filled with a savoury mixture of meat (often pork or chicken), raisins, capers, and olives, seasoned with a blend of spices. Wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, Pastelles are a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours.

8. Bake and Buljol

A popular breakfast dish, Bake and Buljol features salted cod (buljol) served with fried dough (bake). The saltfish is marinated with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs, creating a zesty and flavorful accompaniment to the soft and fluffy bake.

9. Pholourie

Pholourie, small fried spiced dough balls, is a beloved snack across Trinidad and Tobago. Served with tamarind or mango chutney, these crispy treats are perfect for snacking on the go or enjoying as part of a larger meal.

10. Black Cake

No Trini feast is complete without Black Cake, a rich and decadent rum-soaked fruitcake. Chiefly made with dried fruits soaked in rum and cherry brandy, Black Cake is a traditional dessert enjoyed during Christmas and other festive occasions, symbolising the islands’ diverse cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Exploring Trinidad and Tobago’s Trini dishes is an adventure. It offers a blend of flavours and traditions that reflect the vibrant culture of the islands. Lastly, whether sampling street food at a bustling vendor or savouring a home-cooked meal, each dish tells a story of heritage and hospitality. Embrace the flavors of Trinidad and Tobago and discover why people celebrate its dishes worldwide for its richness and diversity.