Renting a Jamaican villa is truly one of life's finest luxuries. And you, your family, and friends don't ever need to leave the beautiful house that your are vacationing in to experience fine dining. Your personal chef that cooks for your villa will be able to prepare any meals that you that request, plus whatever groceries and/or alcohol you and your guests desire. Your chef will stock some basic groceries before your arrival and then shop for your groups particular requests. But what sort of meals should you request from your chef? And how do you know what the local cuisine is like?
The following is a brief overview of the most delicious Jamaican dishes. You can plan your meals accordingly or mention to your chef what meals you would like to see on the menu.
Jerk Chicken or Pork
Jerk chicken or pork is seasoned with Scotch bonnet peppers, onions, and thyme, then slowly cooked in pimento leaves. This is one of the most widely prepared dishes in Jamaica. Side dishes usually include rice and beans (locally referred to as rice and peas), fried plantains, or callaloo, which is similar to collard greens.
Pepperpot Stew
Although it is hot year round in Jamaica, pepperpot stew is a national favorite. It has some flavors that are similar to jerk due to the use of thyme and hot peppers, but there are also hints of allspice. This delicious dish has beef or pork, callaloo, taro root or sweet potatoes, onions, and garlic in it. It is usually served over white rice.
Gizzadas
Gizzadas are a pastry that are filled with butter and sweetened coconut, ginger, and nutmeg. Traditionally, Jamaicans eat a dish for breakfast that consists of ackee fruit, codfish, peppers, and onions. Gizzadas are a nice alternative for breakfast.
Escovitch
Escovitch refers to fish or seafood that has been soaked in vinegar and scotch bonnet peppers and then fried. King fish and red snapper are often prepared in escovitch style. It is usually served with green peppers, red peppers, and onions.
Curried Goat
This is a savory dish prepared with thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, and Jamaican curry. It is served over rice.
Along with these wonderful local dishes, Jamaica is full of fresh, tropical fruit year round.
Now that you know what sort of food to expect in Jamaica, you can plan the menu with your chef and adjust recipes according to your personal preferences or any food allergies anyone in your group might have. Staying at a villa is a magical experience that will only be enhanced by enjoying local cuisine in the comfort of your own living quarters.
