25+ Tasty Easter Caribbean Recipes for a Flavorful Celebration

Easter in the Caribbean is a time for family gatherings, vibrant celebrations, and, of course, incredible food.

The holiday brings together rich cultural traditions, with each island offering its own unique flavors and dishes.

Whether you’re celebrating with a traditional family feast or looking to try something new, Caribbean cuisine provides the perfect combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and festive flair.

This collection of 25+ Easter Caribbean recipes will guide you through a variety of dishes—from sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns to savory classics like Gungo Peas and Rice.

Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, dinner, or potluck, these dishes are sure to delight your guests and transport them straight to the tropics.

From seafood to sweets, there’s something for everyone in these delicious Caribbean Easter recipes.

So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s dive into the flavors of the Caribbean this Easter.

Ready to make your holiday extra special?

25+ Tasty Easter Caribbean Recipes for a Flavorful Celebration

The Caribbean’s Easter traditions are as rich and diverse as the islands themselves, offering a vibrant array of dishes to make your holiday celebration unforgettable.

From the hearty and comforting flavors of Gungo Peas and Rice to the sweet and aromatic scent of freshly baked Hot Cross Buns, these recipes will add warmth and authenticity to your Easter table.

As you explore these 25+ Easter Caribbean recipes, you’ll discover that each dish tells a story of culture, family, and the joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.

These recipes are more than just food—they are an experience, a celebration of the Caribbean spirit.

So, this Easter, spice up your menu with these delicious Caribbean flavors and make your celebration a true feast for the senses!

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Jamaican Easter Spice Bun

The Jamaican Easter Spice Bun is a staple on Caribbean Easter tables. This sweet and spicy bread is typically enjoyed with slices of cheddar cheese or butter. Rich with flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins, this bun carries cultural significance, symbolizing sharing and community during the Easter season. It’s easy to make and fills your home with a heavenly aroma.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup molasses
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp honey (for glazing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix in the brown sugar and raisins.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, molasses, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the top with honey for a glossy finish. Let cool before slicing.

Jamaican Easter Spice Bun is a heartwarming addition to any Easter celebration. The balance of sweetness and spice makes it a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with sharp cheddar cheese. This recipe is a delightful way to bring a touch of Caribbean flavor to your holiday table.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Trinidadian Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns are a cherished Easter tradition across the Caribbean, and the Trinidadian version adds an exotic twist with nutmeg, allspice, and orange zest. These soft, slightly sweet buns are a treat to bake and share, symbolizing unity and faith during the Easter season.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups bread flour
• 2 tsp yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ cup currants
• ½ cup raisins
• ¼ cup icing sugar (for cross decoration)
• 2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine yeast, warm milk, and 1 tbsp of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, nutmeg, allspice, and orange zest. Add currants and raisins.
3. Add the yeast mixture, butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Knead until a soft, elastic dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
4. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place on a greased baking tray. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix icing sugar and milk to create a paste. Pipe crosses on each bun.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.

Trinidadian Hot Cross Buns are a delicious way to celebrate Easter. Their fragrant spices and zesty flavor make them irresistible. Serve these buns warm with a spread of butter or enjoy them plain. Sharing these buns is a beautiful way to honor the season’s spirit of togetherness.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Bahamian Coconut Tart

Bahamian Coconut Tart is a festive dessert that brings tropical flair to Easter celebrations. This rich, flaky pastry filled with sweet coconut filling embodies the island’s vibrant culture. Whether served as part of an Easter feast or as a sweet snack, this tart is a sure hit.

Ingredients:
For the crust:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed
• ¼ cup shortening
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold water

For the filling:

• 2 cups grated fresh coconut
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. To make the filling, combine grated coconut, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Mix well.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and line a tart pan. Trim the edges and fill with the coconut mixture.
5. Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the tart.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool before slicing.

Bahamian Coconut Tart is a tropical delight perfect for Easter. Its flaky crust and rich coconut filling provide a delicious contrast that leaves everyone craving more. This tart is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Bahamian culture and the Easter spirit.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Barbadian Easter Baked Macaroni Pie

Bajan Baked Macaroni Pie is a flavorful and comforting dish that is a beloved part of Easter feasts in Barbados. This cheesy, savory pie is made with elbow macaroni, a rich egg mixture, and a blend of seasonings, all baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s often served alongside other traditional Easter dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté the onions, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, mustard, thyme, pepper, and salt.
5. Add the cooked macaroni, sautéed vegetables, and 2 cups of grated cheese into the milk mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Barbadian Baked Macaroni Pie is a rich and savory dish that brings comfort and flavor to any Easter table. Its creamy texture and cheesy crust are guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Perfect for family gatherings, this dish adds warmth and a taste of Barbados to your holiday celebrations.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Saint Lucian Easter Lamb Stew

Saint Lucian Easter Lamb Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for the Easter holiday. This stew is full of tender lamb, vegetables, and Caribbean spices like thyme and allspice, creating a dish that’s both aromatic and satisfying. The rich sauce and tender meat make it a perfect main course for Easter Sunday.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the lamb cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, carrots, thyme, allspice, and paprika to the pot. Stir to coat with the seasonings.
4. Return the lamb to the pot and add the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
5. Lower the heat and simmer for 1–1.5 hours, until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Saint Lucian Easter Lamb Stew is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday with its tender lamb, rich flavors, and comforting textures. The combination of fresh vegetables and fragrant spices makes it a truly satisfying dish for Easter gatherings. Pair it with rice or bread to soak up the delicious sauce and enjoy a hearty meal.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Jamaican Easter Sorrel Drink

Jamaican Easter Sorrel Drink is a refreshing, tangy beverage that is a quintessential part of the Easter holiday in Jamaica. Made from dried hibiscus petals, sorrel is infused with spices like ginger, cloves, and allspice, creating a deeply flavorful drink. It’s served chilled and is often spiked with rum, making it the perfect festive drink for the season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried sorrel petals
• 1 medium piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp allspice
• 1–2 cups dark rum (optional)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the sorrel petals, ginger, cloves, cinnamon stick, and water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
2. Remove from the heat and let the mixture steep for about an hour.
3. Strain the liquid into a clean pitcher, discarding the solids.
4. Stir in sugar to taste, ensuring it dissolves completely.
5. Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. When ready to serve, add rum (if using) and pour over ice cubes.

Jamaican Easter Sorrel Drink is a tangy, spicy, and refreshing beverage that perfectly complements the flavors of Easter. It’s an essential part of the celebration, offering a cooling drink to balance the heat of the season. The addition of rum adds an extra layer of festivity, making this drink an unforgettable Easter tradition.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Bahamian Easter Fish Stew

Bahamian Easter Fish Stew is a light yet flavorful dish that showcases the region’s love for fresh seafood. Packed with seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tender fish, this stew is a quintessential part of Easter celebrations in the Bahamas. It’s perfect for those who prefer a seafood dish to the usual meat offerings during the holiday.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh white fish fillets (snapper or grouper), cut into pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups fish stock or water
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes, potato, carrot, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the fish stock or water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Gently add the fish pieces to the pot, along with vinegar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Bahamian Easter Fish Stew is a refreshing and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of the ocean to your Easter table. The tender fish combined with the vibrant vegetables creates a satisfying stew that’s light yet full of flavor. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a flavorful seafood experience as part of their holiday feast.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Jamaican Easter Pudding

Jamaican Easter Pudding, also known as “Sweet Potato Pudding,” is a beloved dessert that graces tables during the Easter holiday. Made with sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, this pudding has a dense, cake-like texture and a rich, tropical flavor. It’s a perfect treat to end your Easter meal with something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated sweet potatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking dish (8×8 inches).
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir to combine.
3. Add the melted butter, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, and eggs to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
4. If desired, fold in raisins for added texture and sweetness.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Jamaican Easter Pudding is a decadent and comforting dessert that brings together the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of coconut milk and warm spices. It’s the perfect way to end your Easter meal on a high note, offering a taste of Jamaica’s culinary traditions and a delightful combination of flavors.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Caribbean Easter Fruit Cake

Caribbean Easter Fruit Cake is a rich, spiced cake that is often enjoyed as a traditional dessert during Easter celebrations. Made with a variety of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this cake is typically soaked in rum for added flavor and moisture. Its deep, dark color and complex flavors make it a showstopper at any Easter gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, prunes, etc.)
• 1 cup chopped candied ginger
• 1 cup mixed nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts)
• 1 cup dark rum (or fruit juice for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the dried fruits, candied ginger, nuts, and rum. Stir well and let it soak for a few hours or overnight.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
4. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Then fold in the soaked fruit mixture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 1.5–2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely before removing from the pan.

Caribbean Easter Fruit Cake is a rich and festive dessert that encapsulates the essence of the holiday season. With its deep, spicy flavor and moist texture, this cake is a true celebration of the Caribbean’s love for vibrant, flavorful treats. Whether served with a cup of tea or as the grand finale to your Easter feast, this cake is sure to be a hit at your gathering.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Trinidadian Callaloo

Trinidadian Callaloo is a classic dish often served during Easter celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago. It’s a rich, flavorful soup made with dasheen (taro leaves), okra, coconut milk, and seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. This dish is comforting, nourishing, and perfect as a side or main course, and it’s typically enjoyed with some hot bread or rice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dasheen leaves (or spinach if unavailable), chopped
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp oil (for sautéing)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft.
2. Add the okra and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in the dasheen leaves, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the broth and bring to a boil.
4. Lower the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the dasheen leaves are tender.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. If desired, add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Trinidadian Callaloo is a hearty, flavorful dish that perfectly complements the Easter spread. The creamy coconut milk and tender dasheen leaves offer a satisfying texture, while the herbs and spices bring a depth of flavor that makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s a beautiful representation of Caribbean cuisine and a comforting addition to any Easter meal.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Jamaican Escovitch Fish

Jamaican Escovitch Fish is a vibrant and tangy dish often enjoyed during Easter in Jamaica. This dish features crispy fried fish topped with a zesty, pickled vegetable sauce made with carrots, onions, bell peppers, and scotch bonnet peppers. The combination of the crispy fish and the tangy escovitch sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that is irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs whole fish (snapper or parrotfish), cleaned and gutted
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the fish with salt, pepper, and allspice.
2. Fry the fish until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, onions, bell pepper, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Pour the escovitch sauce over the fried fish. Let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the escovitch fish hot with rice, fried dumplings, or breadfruit.

Jamaican Escovitch Fish is a perfect Easter dish that combines crispy fried fish with the bold, tangy flavors of pickled vegetables. The heat from the Scotch bonnet pepper, the tang from the vinegar, and the sweetness of the carrots all come together to create a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of Jamaica during Easter.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Barbados Easter Sweet Bread

Barbados Easter Sweet Bread is a traditional dessert enjoyed during the Easter holiday. This slightly spiced bread is studded with dried fruits like raisins and currants, and it’s often served with a cup of tea. Its soft, slightly sweet crumb and aromatic flavor make it a beloved part of Easter celebrations in Barbados.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp grated nutmeg
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
• 1 cup coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the dried fruits and coconut (if using).
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Barbados Easter Sweet Bread is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and fruity flavors. Its light, fluffy texture and rich aroma make it an ideal addition to your Easter spread. Whether served as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat, this bread is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean during the holiday season.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Bahamian Rock Lobster with Garlic Butter Sauce

Bahamian Rock Lobster is a prized delicacy often featured in Easter feasts in the Bahamas. Known for its sweet, succulent meat, this lobster is typically served with a rich garlic butter sauce that complements its natural flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for the Easter table, bringing a taste of the sea with each bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 Bahamian rock lobsters (or regular lobster tails)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. If using whole lobsters, split them in half lengthwise. If using lobster tails, simply cut them down the center.
3. Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lobsters on the grill, flesh-side down, and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
5. While the lobster is grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
6. Stir in the parsley, lemon juice, and paprika. Mix well and remove from heat.
7. Once the lobster is cooked, drizzle the garlic butter sauce generously over the lobster meat.
8. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Bahamian Rock Lobster with Garlic Butter Sauce is a luxurious and flavorful dish that will elevate any Easter celebration. The sweetness of the lobster combined with the richness of the garlic butter sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. It’s a fantastic choice for seafood lovers looking to indulge during the holiday.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Trinidadian Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns are a beloved Easter treat in Trinidad and Tobago. These spiced buns, traditionally eaten on Good Friday, are flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and mixed dried fruits, and topped with a distinctive cross. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends, and their soft, fluffy texture makes them a favorite among all ages during the Easter season.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 cup milk, lukewarm
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp warm water (for yeast activation)
• ½ cup icing sugar (for cross)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and remaining sugar.
3. Add the softened butter, eggs, and activated yeast mixture. Gradually pour in the milk and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. Add the dried fruit and knead until evenly incorporated.
6. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bun and place them on a greased baking sheet.
8. Allow the buns to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. While the buns are baking, mix the icing sugar with a little water to create a thick paste.
11. When the buns are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Pipe the icing in the shape of a cross on top of each bun.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Trinidadian Hot Cross Buns are a nostalgic and flavorful part of the Easter celebration. The combination of spices, dried fruits, and the sweet icing cross makes them a true delight. They are perfect for breakfast, tea, or as a treat to share with loved ones. These buns will definitely bring warmth and joy to your Easter table.

Easter Caribbean Recipes: Jamaican Gungo Peas and Rice

Gungo Peas and Rice, also known as Pigeon Peas and Rice, is a popular dish served in Jamaica during Easter and other special occasions. The dish is simple yet flavorful, featuring tender gungo peas cooked in a savory blend of seasonings and combined with fluffy rice. It’s often served alongside meat or seafood, making it a great addition to any festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried gungo peas (pigeon peas), soaked overnight
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional for heat)
• 4 cups coconut milk
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp thyme
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse the soaked gungo peas. In a large pot, add the peas and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a separate pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, water, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked gungo peas and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the rice to the pot and stir well. Cover and cook over low heat for about 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Optional: Add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper during cooking for a bit of heat. Remove it before serving if desired.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Jamaican Gungo Peas and Rice is a rich, flavorful side dish that is perfect for Easter feasts. The creamy coconut milk, tender peas, and aromatic seasonings come together to create a dish that’s satisfying and comforting. Paired with your favorite meat or seafood, it’s an essential part of any Jamaican Easter spread.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!