Jamaican

Jamaican food is a true blend of multiple cultures. Spices such as nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and curry (a blend of many spices) feature prominently in Jamaican cuisine.

Individuals from many corners of the globe settled in Jamaica bringing with them their culinary traditions which today is Caribbean food. Spanish, British, Chinese, and East Indians all contributed to the culinary repertoire of Jamaica.

The Spanish brought lemons, limes, coconuts, and sugar cane. These are actually products for which Jamaican recipes are known today.

Prior to the arrival of the Spanish the natives of Jamaica were the Arawaks. They grew papayas, peanuts, potatoes, and fished. They actually roasted fish on four spokes, and this is where the modern version of the barbecue comes from.

One of my favorite Jamaican/Caribbean desserts is Toto which is a coconut cake that is absolutely out of this world. I have co worker from Jamaica, and she has promised to share some of her family favorites with me.