10+ BVI Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer a vibrant mix of flavors and cultures through their unique recipes. These dishes not only highlight local ingredients but also bring a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. By trying these recipes, you can explore the rich culinary heritage of the BVI right at home.

Whether you’re planning a gathering or just want to enjoy some delicious food, BVI recipes can inspire your cooking. From savory seafood dishes to delightful desserts, each recipe reflects the vibrant spirit of island life. You will find that these meals are perfect for any occasion, making them a fantastic addition to your cooking repertoire.

1) Fish & Fungi

Fish and fungi is a traditional dish from the British Virgin Islands. It features a flavorful fish cooked with fungi, which is a type of cornmeal dish. This meal is both tasty and comforting.

To make this dish, gather fresh ingredients. You will need firm white fish and cornmeal for the fungi. Spices and vegetables, like onion and tomatoes, enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 lbs firm white fish
• 1/2 teaspoon Accent seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon margarine
• 1 medium onion, cut into large chunks
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 3/4 cup fine yellow cornmeal
• 1 1/4 cups boiling water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Place the fish and all ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Cook gently over medium heat until the fish is done, about 20 to 30 minutes.
3. For the fungi, in a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
4. Gradually add the cornmeal while whisking constantly. Cook on low heat until thickened.

2) Savory Baked Island Chicken

Savory Baked Island Chicken is a simple and delicious meal. The marinade is key to getting that tangy, flavorful taste. You can prepare the marinade the day before and let the chicken soak up all those great flavors.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the extra marinade over them. This ensures your chicken stays moist while baking.

Bake for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. The juices should run clear when it’s done. Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Place the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Put the marinated chicken in a baking dish and pour the excess marinade over it.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.

3) Calaloo

Calaloo is a beloved dish in the British Virgin Islands. It is a hearty and flavorful green vegetable dish, often made with leafy greens like spinach or taro leaves. You can enjoy it as a side or on its own.

The dish typically includes ingredients like garlic, onions, and sometimes okra. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture that enhances the flavors. You might also notice the spicy kick from Scotch bonnet peppers.

Many recipes allow for personal touches, so feel free to add ingredients you love. It pairs well with rice or as a complement to your favorite meats.

Ingredients

• 1 lb leafy greens (like spinach or taro leaves)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash and chop the leafy greens.
2. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the greens and cook for a few minutes until wilted.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and add the Scotch bonnet.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until everything is heated through.

4) Virgin Islands Saltfish Patties

Virgin Islands Saltfish Patties are a delicious snack, perfect for any occasion. The crispy pastry outside pairs wonderfully with the savory saltfish filling. You can enjoy them hot or cold.

Making these patties is simple. Start by preparing the saltfish and mixing it with spices. Then, wrap the filling in dough and fry until golden.

These bites are great as a quick meal or an appetizer at gatherings. You can serve them with hot sauce for an extra kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup saltfish, soaked
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the saltfish for 15 minutes, then flake it.
2. Mix flour, baking powder, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Add water gradually to form a dough.
4. Roll out the dough and cut into circles.
5. Place flaked saltfish and chopped onion on each circle.
6. Fold over and seal the edges.
7. Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry patties until golden brown, about 5 minutes each side.

5) Johnny Cake – Fry Bakes

Johnny Cake, also known as fry bakes, is a popular dish in the British Virgin Islands. It’s a simple yet delicious fried bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can serve it with a variety of toppings or enjoy it on its own.

To make Johnny Cake, you’ll need just a few ingredients that are easy to find. The dough comes together quickly, making it a great recipe for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2.5 teaspoons room temperature butter
• Water (as needed)
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix the flour, baking powder, and sugar in a bowl.
2. Melt the butter and stir it into the flour mixture.
3. Gradually add water until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
6. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
7. Fry each piece until golden brown on both sides.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

6) Coconut Tart

Coconut tart is a delicious treat popular in the British Virgin Islands. This pastry has a sweet coconut filling and a flaky crust, making it a favorite dessert.

To make coconut tart, you will need fresh, grated coconut mixed with sugar and spices. The filling is encased in a buttery crust that adds to its flavor.

This dish is great for gatherings or as a snack. You’ll enjoy the tropical taste that reminds you of the islands.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated coconut
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix grated coconut, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl.
3. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a tart pan.
4. Pour the coconut mixture into the crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden.

7) Walker’s Jerk Shrimp

Walker’s Jerk Shrimp is a delicious dish that brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table. It features shrimp that are marinated in a spicy jerk sauce, making it both flavorful and exciting.

To start, you’ll need ingredients like fresh shrimp, lime juice, and Walkerswood Jerk Sauce. This recipe is perfect for grilling or pan-searing, giving you flexibility in how you cook it.

Once cooked, you can enjoy your shrimp on its own or serve it with rice or vegetables. The combination of spices and smoky flavors will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined
• 1 tbs olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2-3 tbsp Walkerswood Jerk Sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix shrimp, olive oil, lime juice, and jerk sauce.
2. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat a grill or pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
4. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

8) Anegada Breeze

The Anegada Breeze is a refreshing drink you can enjoy on a hot day. It’s perfect for sipping by the beach or at a backyard barbecue. This cocktail combines tropical flavors for a delightful taste.

To make an Anegada Breeze, you will need rum, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice. The sweet and tangy blend makes it a favorite for many.

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) rum
• 3 oz (90 ml) pineapple juice
• 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice
• Ice
• Pineapple slice (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Pour in the rum, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice.
3. Shake well until mixed and chilled.
4. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a pineapple slice. Enjoy!

9) Walker’s Chocolate Cookies

Walker’s Chocolate Cookies are a delicious treat you can easily make at home. These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

To start, you’ll need to prepare the dough. Combine all your ingredients except for the pecans. Keep in mind, the dough will be very stiff, so mix carefully.

Once the dough is ready, fold in the pecans for added crunch. Remember to powder your hands with extra cocoa to avoid sticking when you shape the cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix butter and sugar.
3. Add cocoa powder and flour gradually.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Shape the dough into cookies and place on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Enjoy!

10) Pecan Sandies

Pecan sandies are a delightful treat for cookie lovers. These buttery cookies have a nutty flavor and a lovely crisp texture. They are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.

To make these cookies, you’ll need some basic ingredients. You can add brown sugar for a richer taste. Toasted pecans provide a wonderful crunch.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup pecans
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Chop the pecans finely and set them aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.

4. Add the egg yolk, vanilla, and salt. Then, mix well.

5. Gradually stir in the flour and pecans until combined.

6. Scoop small amounts of dough and place them on a baking sheet.

7. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.