The Top 10 Foods of Bermuda
Say “Bermuda” and most people will think of the Bermuda Triangle. But if that’s all you know, you will be missing the melting pot of cultures that take seriously their traditions, cultures, and food – not to mention hospitality, which is a large part of the island’s charm.
Seafood abounds in Bermuda, so if fresh sea fayre rocks your boat, this is the place to come.
They say that if want an authentic Bermudian meal, you should find yourself a family to take you in. However you choose to sample the delights of Bermudian cuisine, a little foreknowledge goes a long way.
So here are a few Bermudian dishes that you simply have to try should you visit this North Atlantic gem.
1. Codfish and Potato Breakfast
The typical Sunday breakfast in Bermuda is codfish and potatoes. Normally, it is accompanied by boiled eggs, avocado, and banana. Some people add either butter sauce or tomato, depending on preference.
2. Fish Chowder
In Bermuda there is local seafood all year around. The one dish that everyone loves and cannot be missed is fish chowder.
It’s a soup consisting of fish, tomatoes, onions, and black rum and sherry pepper sauce. Each chowder is prepared differently, but the main ingredients never change.
3. Fish Sandwich
There is an island-wide debate about who serves up the best fish sandwich. Yearly competitions between restaurants and chefs are hosted to decide on who makes the best. But one thing is for sure – a good fish sandwich contains more fish than anything else.
4. Codfish Cakes (Fish Cakes)
These are traditionally made around Good Friday. It’s a mixture of codfish and potato made into a patty. Everyone has their secret combination of spices, but as long as it is served on a hot cross bun you cannot go wrong.
5. Peas and Rice
Peas and rice is normally made with rice, black eyed peas, and either ham hock or bacon. This dish is a must at any family function.
6. Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a lovely dessert that is made to use up stale cake or bread. You cut the cake or bread into pieces and soak it in milk to give it back some moisture. Once it’s soaked up the milk, you make a syrup, pour it over the top, and bake it as you would a cake. The end result is delicious!
7. Shark Hash
Shark hash is hard to find these days, but ask any of the older locals and their face will light up with delight. It’s made by sautéing shark liver with sherry peppers. The oil from the shark liver is then used to cook the shark meat, giving it all the flavor. If you love seafood you’ll love this!
8. Conch Stew
Conch is now a protected species in Bermuda, but in the past, conch stew was what the locals lived by. The magic is still created, though these days with imported conch. It’s made with a mixture of conch, white wine, tomatoes, celery, carrots, heavy cream, black rum, sherry pepper sauce and a mixture of seasonings. Some substitute shrimp or clams for the conch.
Editor’s Note: Conches are very popular in the North Atlantic and Caribbean and are enjoyed in the Bahamas (salad and fritters), the Cayman Island, Belize, and as far south as Panama and Curacao.
9. Cassava Pie
Cassava pie is a Bermudian tradition that is compulsory at Christmas! At first glance it looks like a cake, but once you slice it up and take a bite, it’s nothing but pure bliss. It’s a mixture of sweet and savory. While some have no meat, others are made with chicken or pork.
10. Paw Paw Casserole
Paw paw casserole is a popular traditional dish. It’s made with paw paws, heavy cream, cheese, and a mixture of seasonings.
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