Cou-Cou and Flying Fish – Often considered the national dish of Barbados, Cou-Cou is made from cornmeal and okra, cooked and stirred until it forms a firm consistency. It’s typically served with flying fish, which is either steamed or fried and accompanied by a spicy tomato-based sauce.

Macaroni Pie – This Bajan comfort food is a staple at many meals. It’s a richer, more decadent version of traditional macaroni and cheese, often baked with a creamy, spiced cheese sauce that gives it a distinctive flavor and hearty texture.

Fish Cakes – These are small, spicy fritters made from salted codfish mixed with flour, herbs, and spices, then deep-fried until golden brown. They are commonly served as a snack or appetizer with a side of Bajan hot pepper sauce.

Pudding and Souse – A traditional Saturday dish in Barbados, pudding is made from sweet potato, and souse is pickled pork. The pudding is actually a steamed sweet potato mixture that is stuffed into cleaned pig intestines, while the souse is made with parts of the pig such as the ears, trotters, and tongue, pickled in lime juice, cucumber, peppers, and onions.

Bajan Black Cake – A rich dessert often reserved for special occasions and holidays, Bajan Black Cake is made with rum-soaked fruits (like prunes, cherries, and currants), sugar, and molasses, giving it a dark color and dense texture. It’s similar to a British Christmas cake but with a Caribbean twist.