6 Must-Try Cuisines for a Delicious Island Escape

Escape to a tropical paradise and indulge in all the delicious cuisines the islands have to offer! From fiery curries and zesty salsas to succulent seafood and creamy coconuts, islands are a melting pot of flavours. Whether you’re planning an escape to the Caribbean, exploring the South Pacific or island hopping in Southeast Asia, there’s a world of delectable dishes to be discovered. Here are 6 must-try cuisines for a delicious island escape!

Caribbean Cuisine

The Caribbean is famous for its vibrant fusion of flavours, with influences from Africa, Europe, North and South America, and the Middle East. Whether you’re in Jamaica, Cuba, or the Dominican Republic, you’ll find a tantalising array of dishes. Start your day with a traditional breakfast of saltfish and fried dumplings or a hearty plate of jerk chicken with rice and peas. For lunch, try a plate of Jamaican patties, a spicy beef turnover with a flaky crust, or a plate of Roti—a roti-style flatbread with curried vegetables. Finish your day with a fiery jerk pork or a succulent grilled fish. With its unique combination of spices and flavours, Caribbean cuisine is sure to tantalise your taste buds!

Indonesian Cuisine

Indonesian cuisine is a delicious mix of Chinese, Indian, and Dutch influences. Dive into a plate of Nasi Goreng—the national dish of Indonesia—a fragrant fried rice dish with vegetables and spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a plate of Sate—skewered meats and vegetables grilled over charcoal and served with a spicy peanut sauce. Or, for a light snack, try a plate of Gado-Gado—a medley of vegetables, eggs, and tofu served with a spicy peanut sauce. Finish your meal with a plate of Es Campur—a traditional dessert of mixed fruit and jelly served with a sweet syrup. With its unique mix of flavours, Indonesian cuisine is sure to delight your palate!

Thai Cuisine

Thai cuisine is renowned for its balance of sweet, sour, spicy and salty flavours. Start your day with a plate of Pad Thai—rice noodles stir-fried with eggs, tofu, and vegetables. For lunch, indulge in a plate of Tom Yum Goong—a spicy soup with shrimp and mushrooms. Or, try a plate of Khao Soi—a rich curry-style dish with egg noodles and chicken. Finish your meal with a sweet dessert of mango sticky rice. With its unique combination of flavours, Thai cuisine is sure to tantalise your taste buds!

Polynesian Cuisine

Polynesian cuisine is a delicious mix of traditional and modern flavours. Start your day with a plate of Poi—a traditional dish of pounded taro root served with coconut milk. For a light snack, try a plate of Pipi Kaula—beef jerky seasoned with garlic, ginger and sea salt. Or, indulge in a plate of Luau—a traditional dish of pork, sweet potatoes, and taro leaves cooked in a banana leaf. Finish your meal with a plate of Haupia—a coconut pudding made with coconut milk and sugar. With its unique combination of flavours, Polynesian cuisine is sure to delight your palate!

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is a delicious mix of Chinese and French influences. Start your day with a plate of Pho—a traditional noodle soup with beef or chicken. For lunch, indulge in a plate of Bun Cha—rice noodles served with grilled pork, herbs and a tangy dipping sauce. Or, try a plate of Banh Mi—a savoury sandwich with pickled carrots, cucumber and a sweet chilli sauce. Finish your meal with a plate of Che Ba Mau—a traditional dessert of layered mung beans, coconut and tapioca. With its unique combination of flavours, Vietnamese cuisine is sure to tantalise your taste buds!

Hawaiian Cuisine

Hawaiian cuisine is a delicious mix of Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese and Portuguese influences. Start your day with a plate of Loco Moco—a traditional dish of rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy. For lunch, try a plate of Kalua Pig—slow-roasted pork served with steamed cabbage. Or, indulge in a plate of Poke—fresh fish cubes marinated in a savoury sauce. Finish your meal with a plate of Haupia Pie—a traditional dessert of coconut and cream. With its unique combination of flavours, Hawaiian cuisine is sure to tantalise your taste buds!

Summary

Whether you’re planning an escape to the Caribbean, exploring the South Pacific or island hopping in Southeast Asia, there’s a world of delectable dishes to be discovered. From fiery curries and zesty salsas to succulent seafood and creamy coconuts, islands are a melting pot of flavours. Indulge in the Caribbean’s vibrant fusion of flavours; savour Indonesia’s unique mix of Chinese, Indian, and Dutch influences; tantalise your taste buds with Thai cuisine; dive into Polynesia’s traditional and modern flavours; explore the unique combination of Chinese and French influences in Vietnamese cuisine; and savour the mix of Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese and Portuguese flavours in Hawaiian cuisine. Whatever you choose, a delicious island escape awaits!