Caribbean Fruit & Vegetables
The Caribbean boasts a huge variety of delicious fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices. Take a look at some of the produce available in various Caribbean islands.
This is for information only and NOT for sale!
STAR APPLE (5 FINGERS)
Star apple is a unique fruit with a purple skin that needs to be ripened off the tree. Although the white flesh may seem tasteless, it has a subtle sweetness that is worth trying. The pips are arranged in a star formation, making it a fun fruit to eat and explore.
ACKEE
Ackee is a fruit that grows on trees and is widely found in Jamaica. It's important to note that the fruit is poisonous when unripe, but when it's ripe, it splits open to reveal three large black seeds and yellowish flesh. Interestingly, when cooked, the flesh resembles scrambled eggs.
AUBERGINE
Eggplant, also known as melogene or aubergine, is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you're grilling, roasting, or sautéing, eggplant adds a unique flavor and texture to any meal. Try incorporating this nutritious vegetable into your next recipe for a delicious and healthy meal.
GREEN BANANA
Green bananas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many savoury dishes. They must be cooked before eating and are great when paired with salt fish, stews, or steamed and boiled dishes. Try incorporating green bananas into your next meal for a unique and delicious twist!
BLUGGOE
Bluggoe is a delicious tropical fruit that resembles plantain. It has an angular shape and a savoury taste that makes it perfect for soups and stews. Found in many tropical countries, Bluggoe is a versatile ingredient that can add a unique flavor to any dish.
BREADFRUIT
Breadfruit is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is a staple food in many islands. With its rough skin and large size, it can weigh up to 4 lb. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet.
CALLALOO
Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that is similar to spinach. It is commonly used in Caribbean cuisine and is known for its unique flavour and nutritional benefits. Whether you're looking to add some variety to your diet or simply want to try something new, callaloo is definitely worth a try!
CASSAVA
Cassava is a root that contains prussic acid and must be processed before consumption. Once grated, boiled, or roasted, the poison is extracted, and it can be ground into flour to make cassava bread and other dishes, including farine.
CERIS
Chris is a delicious fruit that is similar to cherries, with a perfect balance of sweetness and sourness. Its unique flavor makes it a great addition to any dish or snack. Try Ceris today and experience its delightful taste for yourself!
CHRISTOPENE
Chocho, also known as Christophene, is a unique fruit that belongs to the melon family. Its pear-shaped body and pale green skin make it easily recognizable. The flesh of this fruit has a mild taste similar to that of marrow. It can be used in various dishes, from soups to stews, and even as a substitute for potatoes. Give it a try and discover its versatility in the kitchen!
COCOA BEAN
Cocoa beans are the foundation of chocolate, and the process of turning them into the sweet treat we all know and love is a fascinating one. After being harvested, the beans are fermented and dried to bring out their rich flavor. From there, they can be transformed into a variety of delicious chocolate products.
COCONUT
Coconut is a versatile fruit that can be used in both its unripe (green) and ripe (brown) forms. The white meat of the ripe coconut can be grated, toasted or flaked, while the milk can be made into cream. Green coconuts, on the other hand, contain jelly and water, making them a refreshing treat on a hot day.
COFFEE PLANT
Coffee beans have a rich history dating back the 9th century. Originally grown in Ethiopia, coffee beans were later cultivated in other tropical countries. The production process involves harvesting the beans, removing the outer layers, and roasting them to perfection. Today, coffee is enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.
DAMSEL
Damsel is a delightful fruit that is both sweet and sour in taste. It's similar to a grape or plum in size and texture, making it a perfect addition to any fruit salad or dessert. Give it a try and let your taste buds be the judge!
DASHEEN LEAF
Dasheen Leaf is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that is widely grown throughout the Caribbean. With a flavour profile similar to spinach, it can be used in a variety of savory dishes to add a healthy and flavourful twist. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, Dasheen Leaf is a great addition to any recipe.
OKRA
Okra, also known as Ladies Fingers, is a healthy and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. To make it less sticky, try adding a squeeze of lemon.
GREEN FIG (PLANTAIN)
Green fig, also known as plantain, is a small-sized fruit that must be cooked before consumption. It has a savoury taste that makes it a popular ingredient in many dishes. Whether boiled, fried, or baked, green fig adds a unique flavor to any meal.
MACE
Mace is a versatile spice that adds a unique and strong flavor to both sweet and savoury dishes. It is derived from the inner covering of the nutmeg seed and is commonly used in baking, soups, stews, and meat dishes. Its distinct taste and aroma make it a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike.
LAKATAN (PLANTAIN)
Lakatan is a delicious variety of plantain that can be found in many tropical countries. With its vibrant red colour and sweet flavour, it's a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Just remember to cook it before using it in your recipes!
MANGO
Mangoes are a delicious fruit that can be found in many tropical countries. With their sweet and juicy flesh, they are a popular choice for many people. There are also many different varieties of mangoes to choose from, each with their own unique flavuor and texture.
NONI
Noni is a tropical fruit with a distinct sour taste. It's often used to make refreshing drinks and is known for its potential health benefits. If you're looking a unique flavor to add to your beverage menu, consider giving Noni a try.
NUTMEG
Nutmeg is a versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes, from drinks to desserts. Its distinct flavor adds warmth and depth to any recipe. Try incorporating nutmeg into your next culinary creation for a delicious twist.
ORANGES
Oranges are a staple fruit in the Caribbean, with their vibrant green and orange hues adding a pop of color to any dish. From sweet to savoury, oranges are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a must-have in any kitchen.
PAPAYA (PAWPAW)
Papaya, also known as pawpaw, is a versatile fruit that varies in size and flavour. Its skin can be greenish or yellow when ripe, while the flesh is delicate and apricot-coloured. The center of the fruit is filled with peppery black seeds, which can be used as a meat tenderizer. Additionally, the pulp contains pepsin, making it a great digestive aid. When unripe, papaya can also be used as a vegetable.
PASSIONFRUIT
Passionfruit is a delicious fruit that can be found throughout the Caribbean. Its sweet and juicy flavour makes it a popular choice for many people. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a tasty addition to your favorite recipes, passionfruit is definitely worth trying.
PIGEON PEAS (GUNGO PEAS)
Pigeon peas, also known as Gungo Peas, are a popular ingredient in Caribbean cuisine. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from rice and peas to stews and even ice cream! Give your taste buds a treat with these versatile and delicious peas.
POMERAC
Pomerac is a delicious fruit that has a taste similar to an apple. When it's ripe, it turns a beautiful pink or red color. It a great addition to any fruit salad or can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack.
PUMPKIN
Pumpkin, a versatile and nutritious vegetable, is often referred to as squash in the United States. With its sweet and earthy flavour, pumpkin can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory soups to sweet pies. Whether roasted, pureed, or baked, this fall favorite is sure to add a delicious touch to any meal.
SAPODILLA
Sapodilla, also known as nasberry, is a delicious fruit that is about the size of a large plum. It has a brown skin and sweet, yellowish flesh that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Be careful though, as it contains several large flat black seeds.
SEASONING PEPPER
If you're looking for a pepper that adds flavour without too much heat, you might want to try the Habanero pepper. It's similar to the Scotch Bonnet pepper, but slightly less spicy. It's a great addition to everyday meals for those who enjoy a bit of heat without overwhelming their taste buds.
SORREL
Sorrel is a versatile fruit that can be used to make a refreshing drink. With its red and white sepals, you can choose the perfect color to suit your taste. Try it and enjoy the unique flavor of sorrel!
SOURSOP
Soursop is a unique with a green sp exterior and white, acidic flesh filled with shiny black seeds. When sieved, it can be transformed into a creamy drink or ice cream, making it a delicious and refreshing treat.
SUGAR CANE
Sugar cane is a versatile crop that can be used to make both sugar and a refreshing drink. Its sweet taste and unique flavor make it a popular choice for many people. Whether you prefer to enjoy it in a sugary treat or as a thirst-quenching beverage, sugar cane is a great choice.
COCO/EDDOE/TANIA
Cocois a unique root vegetable that is similar in taste to a potato. With its hairy exterior and large size, it's a great addition to any dish. Try incorporating Coco into your next meal for a new and exciting flavor experience.
TURMERIC
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. It has a bright yellow color and a warm, slightly bitter taste. In addition to its culinary uses, turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
TAMARIND
Tamarind is a versatile fruit that adds a unique sweet and sour flavour to sauces, seasonings, and drinks. Whether you're looking to add a tangy twist to your favorite dish create a refreshing beverage, tamarind is a great choice. Try incorporating this delicious fruit into your next culinary creation!
SCOTCH BONNET PEPPER
Scotch bonnet pepper is a popular ingredient in many tropical countries. Its unique smokey flavour adds a punch to any dish it's added to. Try it in your next recipe for a spicy kick!