Antigua food features unique dishes and flavors for you to try during your visit to this tropical island. This culinary destination offers more than 100 bars and restaurants ranging from small local places to Michelin-star restaurants. The restaurants serve a variety of cuisine including native dishes, French, Italian, Creole, and Caribbean. Don’t miss Seafood Fest (or Seafood Fridays) which takes place each week at Nelson’s Dockyard. Foodies can also plan a visit around Antigua & Barbuda Restaurant Week in May or the Antigua & Barbuda Pineapple & Mango Festival in July/August. Below are 6 foods you must try on your trip to Antigua.
1. Fungi and Pepperpot
Fungi and Pepperpot is the national dish of Antigua. Even though Fungi sounds like it should be a mushroom it is actually an Antiguan version of polenta or grits. Fungi is cornmeal and okra paste made into balls. It is normally served with stew (pepperpot).
2. Conch
Conch is a large sea snail that lives in the beautiful spiral shells that are found all over the Caribbean. It is slightly chewy and reminds me of calamari. It may be served numerous ways but my favorite is either fresh from the sea in ceviche or fried in a fritter.
3. Ducana
Ducana is similar to tamales in both preparation and texture. It consists of a mixture of grated sweet potatoes and coconuts. The preparation includes seasoning with a variety of spices, wrapping in a banana leaf, and steaming. Duvana usually serves as a sweet and tangy accompaniment to seafood dishes.
4. Saltfish
Saltfish is a white fish, typically cod, that is salt-cured for 24 hours before it is washed and boiled with peppers, onion and spices. You will commonly find this paired with ducana or fungi.
5. Souse
Souse is a mix between a cold soup and ceviche. It is typically made with pickled pork but can be found with chicken. The soup consists of a light, clear broth with peppers, onions, lime, and spices.
6. Goat Water
Goat water is a thin, brown soup/stew made from goat meat, breadfruit, vegetables, onion, tomato, spices, and herbs.
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