Kalinago Bliss

The Kalinago Bliss is a traditional dish rooted in the culinary heritage of the indigenous Kalinago people of the Caribbean. Known for its vibrant flavors and rich ingredients, this dish captures the spirit of the islands. The Kalinago were highly skilled cultivators, and their cuisine celebrates the bounty of the land with a focus on fresh, natural ingredients.

Ingredients

• Yam
• Cassava
• Sweet Potato
• Coconut Milk
• Green Bananas
• Taro Leaves
• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh Fish
• Lemon Juice
• Onions
• Garlic
• Thyme
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper
• Vegetable Oil

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Begin by peeling, chopping, and thoroughly washing the yam, cassava, and sweet potato. These root vegetables form the base of the dish. Cut them all into uniform cubes for even cooking. Set them aside in a large bowl of water to prevent browning.

Step 2: Preparing the Fish

Rinse the fresh fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Squeeze a small quantity of lemon juice over the fish to enhance its flavor and reduce any fishy aroma. Sprinkle the fish with salt and pepper, then allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepping the Green Bananas

Peel the green bananas and slice them into thick rounds. Place them into a bowl of water as well to prevent them from turning brown.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cooking the Vegetables

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed yam, cassava, and sweet potato. Boil these for around 20-25 minutes until they become tender. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the boiling time. Remove the vegetables from the pot and leave them to drain.

Step 2: Cooking the Taro Leaves

While the vegetables are boiling, place the taro leaves in another pot of boiling water. Cook them until they are soft, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepping and Cooking the Fish

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until they are fragrant, typically after 2-3 minutes. Add the marinated fish and cook each side for about 5 minutes or until fully cooked through. Sprinkle thyme and slice half of the scotch bonnet pepper into the pan for added heat and flavor.

Step 4: Creating the Coconut Milk Blend

Blend the coconut milk with the boiled taro leaves until smooth. Add this blend to the cooked fish in the skillet and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, creating a creamy base enhanced by the flavors of fish and spices.

Step 5: Final Assembly

Add the drained yam, cassava, and sweet potato cubes into the simmering coconut milk mixture. Gently stir to coat all ingredients thoroughly. Add the sliced green bananas, cover and let it all simmer together for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure the flavors are well-combined, checking with a cooking timer.

How to Enjoy Kalinago Bliss

The Kalinago Bliss is best enjoyed with good company, perhaps while savoring the views of a sunset or the gentle rhythms of island music. Serve the dish hot, directly from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if available. Pair with a chilled beverage such as coconut water or a tropical fruit punch to elevate the experience. The dish serves as a splendid reminder of the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean's indigenous peoples.