10 Carnival foods to try this festive season

Carnival season is a time of vibrant celebrations, infectious music, and, most importantly, an explosion of flavours that define the culinary heritage of the Caribbean. From the streets of Trinidad and Tobago to the homes of West Indian communities worldwide, Carnival is as much about food as it is about costumes and calypso. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of Carnival, your taste buds are in for a treat. Here are 10 must-try Carnival foods that capture the essence of this festive season, each offering a unique taste of Caribbean culture.

And if you’re inspired to recreate these Carnival foods at home, all the recipes can be found in Sweet TnT 100 West Indian Recipes—a treasure trove of authentic Caribbean flavours.

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10 Traditional Carnival foods that define Caribbean culture

1. Doubles

No Carnival experience is complete without doubles, the ultimate Trinidadian street food. This beloved snack consists of two soft, fluffy pieces of fried bread (bara) filled with curried channa (chickpeas) and topped with tangy tamarind sauce, spicy pepper sauce, and a sprinkle of cucumber relish.

Doubles are a staple at Carnival fetes and street parties, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between dances or savouring it as a late-night snack, doubles are a must-try.

2. Pelau

Pelau is the quintessential one-pot dish that embodies the heart and soul of Caribbean cooking. This flavourful rice dish is made with caramelised chicken, pigeon peas, and rice, all cooked together with coconut milk and a medley of herbs and spices.

The result is a rich, aromatic meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Pelau is often served at family gatherings and Carnival cookouts, making it a staple during the festive season. Its versatility allows for variations with beef, pork, or even vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

3. Bake and shark

If you find yourself at Maracas Beach during Carnival, bake and shark is a must-try. This iconic Trinidadian dish features crispy fried shark meat tucked into a fluffy fried bread (bake) and topped with an array of condiments like garlic sauce, tamarind sauce, and coleslaw.

The combination of textures and flavours is nothing short of spectacular. While shark is the traditional choice, many vendors now offer alternatives like kingfish or tofu for a sustainable twist. Bake and shark is the perfect beachside treat to fuel your Carnival adventures.

4. Curried crab and dumplings

For seafood lovers, curried crab and dumplings is a Carnival delicacy that shouldn’t be missed. This dish features tender crab meat simmered in a fragrant curry sauce, served alongside soft, pillowy dumplings. The curry is rich and aromatic, with a hint of heat that complements the sweetness of the crab.

Dumplings, made from flour and water, are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavourful sauce. This dish is a labour of love, often reserved for special occasions like Carnival, and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

5. Roti (chicken/vegetable)

Roti is a Caribbean staple that has become synonymous with Carnival feasting. This flatbread, originally influenced by Indian cuisine, is filled with curried chicken, goat, or vegetables like potatoes, mango, pumpkin, bhaghi, and chickpeas.

The roti skin is soft and flaky, wrapping around the flavourful filling to create a handheld meal that’s both convenient and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it at a fete or as a post-Carnival recovery meal, roti is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

6. Salt fish and provisions

Salt fish and provisions is a classic Caribbean dish that showcases the region’s history and resourcefulness. Salted codfish is sautéed with onions, peppers, and tomatoes, then served with a selection of provisions—root vegetables like yam, cassava, and sweet potato.

This dish is a testament to the ingenuity of Caribbean cooking, transforming humble ingredients into a flavourful and satisfying meal. It’s a popular choice for Carnival breakfasts, providing the energy needed to jump and wave throughout the day.

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7. Smoked herring and provisions

Similar to salt fish and provisions, smoked herring and provisions is another dish that highlights the Caribbean’s love for preserved fish. Smoked herring is flaked and cooked with onions, garlic, and peppers, then paired with boiled provisions.

The smoky, savoury flavour of the herring pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the root vegetables, creating a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. It’s a hearty option for Carnival-goers looking to fuel up before hitting the road.

8. Accra

Accra, also known as saltfish fritters, is a popular snack that’s perfect for Carnival festivities. These crispy, golden fritters are made with salted codfish, flour, and a blend of herbs and spices, then deep-fried to perfection.

Accra is often enjoyed as a quick bite or appetiser, paired with a tangy dipping sauce. Its crunchy exterior and flavourful interior make it an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family during Carnival celebrations.

9. Punch a crème

No Carnival celebration is complete without a glass of punch a crème, the Caribbean’s answer to eggnog. This creamy, indulgent drink is made with condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and a generous splash of rum, flavoured with nutmeg and vanilla.

It’s rich, sweet, and packs a punch—perfect for toasting to the joy and excitement of Carnival. Whether you’re sipping it at a fete or enjoying it at home, punch a crème is a festive drink that adds a touch of luxury to the celebrations.

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10. Sorrel juice

To balance out the richness of Carnival foods, sorrel juice is a refreshing and vibrant drink that’s a staple during the festive season. Made from the sepals of the sorrel plant, this deep red drink is infused with spices like ginger, cloves, and cinnamon, and sweetened with sugar.

It’s often spiked with rum for an extra kick, making it a popular choice at Carnival parties. Sorrel juice is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, making it a healthy way to stay hydrated during the festivities.

Celebrate Carnival with flavour

Carnival is a time to indulge in the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Caribbean. These 10 foods offer a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage, from the savoury delights of doubles and bake and shark to the sweet indulgence of punch a crème and sorrel juice. Each dish tells a story of tradition, creativity, and community, making them an essential part of the Carnival experience.

If you’re inspired to bring the flavours of Carnival into your own kitchen, Sweet TnT 100 West Indian Recipes is your ultimate guide. Packed with authentic recipes and step-by-step instructions, this cookbook will help you recreate these iconic dishes at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes will transport you to the heart of the Caribbean, no matter where you are.

So, this Carnival season, don’t just dance to the rhythm—savour the flavours that make this celebration truly unforgettable. From the first bite of doubles to the last sip of sorrel juice, let the tastes of the Caribbean take you on a culinary journey like no other.

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