Typical food of Montego Bay

The magic of Jamaica in every bite.

Jamaica is a gastronomic paradise. Jamaican cuisine, unique and authentic, is based on the island’s excellent ingredients: smoked meats, seafood, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Due to the coexistence of different peoples and cultures throughout history (Spanish, Chinese, Indian, and African, among others) the local cuisine has resulted in a diverse explosion of aromas, flavors, and textures. From the famous jerk sauce used to marinate meats and fish to dishes made with exotic fruits like ackee. Also notable is the iconic Blue Mountain coffee, recognized worldwide for its delicate flavor. Next, we present a selection of dishes you cannot miss if you want to discover the authentic Jamaican flavor.

Ackee and Saltfish

Ackee is a fruit from the lychee family introduced to Jamaica in the late 18th century from West Africa and is hugely successful due to its abundant medicinal properties. It is used to prepare the Jamaican national dish: ackee and saltfish. To prepare it, the fleshy part of the ripe fruit is boiled along with saltfish. Then, everything is sautéed with onion, tomato, hot pepper, and spices. Very popular for breakfast, it is a perfect recipe to enjoy at any time of the day. However, always consume it in trustworthy restaurants, as this fruit can be toxic, even when cooked, if not properly ripened.

Mackerel Soup

In addition to saltfish, mackerel is a very popular fish on the island. It is used to prepare another well-known recipe in Montego Bay cuisine, mackerel soup. This flavorful and hearty stew is made by adding the fish to a sauté of onion, garlic, various fresh seasonal vegetables, and spices. It is then slow-cooked in coconut milk until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. It is usually accompanied by rice or corn bread.

Jerk Chicken

Jamaican cuisine retains cooking techniques from the indigenous populations who lived on the island before successive colonizations. An example of this is the famous jerk chicken. Jerk sauce is used to marinate meats and fish and is made by combining allspice with Caribbean red peppers and spices. This way of seasoning fresh foods was used in the past to better preserve them. Once marinated, the chicken meat is simmered over wood chips and dried dioica pepper, which come from a very aromatic tropical tree. The result is tender and juicy meat with a delicious smoky flavor.

Jamaican Patty

The Jamaican meat patty or patty is a kind of meat pie filled with minced meat and vegetables, although other fillings can also be found. Its characteristic yellow color is due to the dough being brushed with egg and turmeric before cooking. Originating in Jamaica, this delicious pie has become popular in other Caribbean areas like Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. You can try it at any street stall, market, and also in bars and restaurants.

Jamaican Desserts

Jamaican sweets, simply prepared with local ingredients, are delicious treats you won’t want to miss.

Johnny cakes

Johnny cakes are fried dumplings made with flour, sugar, and salt, very popular in Jamaican breakfasts. They are generally made with wheat flour, but can also be found with corn or cassava flour. Sometimes, grated banana is added to give them a sweeter touch. Their texture is golden and crispy on the outside and very fluffy on the inside.

Grater cake

The grater cake or grated coconut cake is the quintessential traditional Jamaican dessert. This delicacy is made by boiling grated coconut and sugar (although white sugar is now used, it was traditionally made with moist brown sugar). When the water has evaporated, the mixture is spread on a tray and baked until it becomes crispy. Finally, it is cut into squares and decorated with a bit of red food coloring.

Drinks and liquors in Montego Bay

In addition to exquisite Creole dishes, in Jamaica, you can taste local beverages of excellent quality, traditionally made, such as smooth and mellow rum or aromatic Blue Mountain coffee.

Red Stripe

Red Stripe is the original beer of Jamaica. Created in 1928 by Thomas Hargreaves Geddes and Eugene Desnoes, this light lager with mild aromas is present in all bars and establishments. In a glass, Red Stripe presents a light straw color with a small white foam layer. On the palate, it is slightly sweet and refreshing, thanks to a slightly bitter finish, making it ideal for hot days. You will recognize it by its characteristic 1950s-style bottle.

Rum

The karst landscape of the Nassau Valley, formed by limestone, caves, and underground springs, is the perfect place for growing the sugar cane used to make exquisite Jamaican rum. Its production follows a completely artisanal method, giving it a unique personality and flavor. Additionally, the island’s climate favors aging in barrels, resulting in a smooth and mellow spirit with notes of vanilla, coffee, cocoa, and hazelnut.

Blue Mountain Coffee

At an altitude of 2,256 meters, the Blue Mountain coffee is grown, considered by experts as one of the best coffees in the world. This food was introduced to the island for the first time in 1728 and has since been hand-harvested naturally, using only organic fertilizers. It is 100% Arabica; a coffee with an intense aroma, a sweet flavor with nutty hints, and a smooth and creamy texture that make it unbeatable.