A Brief History Of Green Fig & Saltfish, St. Lucia's National Dish
Green Fig and Saltfish- St. Lucia’s Delectable National Dish
How Did Green Fig and Saltfish Originate?
From the green figs (green bananas) that grew in abundance even in the 19th century when the dish was created to the saltfish (salted codfish) that was brought in from Canada to keep the slaves fed in the island’s early days, this dish is as much a part of the island as the people themselves.
Originally created as an affordable way of feeding both slaves and other island inhabitants, the dish took on a life of its own over time. People began to add island spices and seasonings and the dish evolved from very basic sustenance to a delectable treat with family recipes passed down along the generations. |
St. Lucia National Dish
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Green Fig and Saltfish- The History of the Dish
When thinking of St. Lucia, you likely think of the Piton Mountains and the beautiful beaches. And there is no doubt that these are hallmarks of the island. But if you were to ask the natives of the island what most makes them think of home, many of them would offer the same answer- Green Fig and Saltfish.
And it makes sense. Not just because it is St. Lucia’s national dish- but because everything about the dish just screams St. Lucian cuisine.
And it makes sense. Not just because it is St. Lucia’s national dish- but because everything about the dish just screams St. Lucian cuisine.
What Does Green Fig and Saltfish Taste Like?
The process of making Green Fig and Saltfish varies widely from one chef to the next. In most cases it is a main course, and the fish usually undergoes quite a preparation process. Salting and drying is typical, followed by boiling the fish before adding local spices and seasonings to give it that distinct Caribbean flavor. The green figs are typically chopped up and added to the saltfish after it has been infused with the delectable flavor for which it is known. While the dish may sound almost contradictory to those who have never tried it, the taste is actually quite incredible. The green figs are infused with flavors such as salt and garlic from the fish, creating an even flavor that dances on the palette with every bite. Don’t take our word for it, though! Give this dish a try to see why it has persisted for more than 200 years as an island favorite. For an even better St. Lucia flavor, pair it with an ice cold Piton Beer!
Your Own Private Chef At Home Experience!!
Where Can I Find Green Fig and Saltfish?
While Green Fig and Saltfish is most commonly served during cultural festivals and during the island’s Creole Heritage Month, it is not hard to find year-round on the island.
Many popular restaurants serve their own delicious take on the dish, and if you are a lucky guest of one of the beautiful Islander Villas, you will find that our on-demand private chef service can offer the dish or one of our other Caribbean specialties while you kick back and enjoy the amenities of the property.
The open air market in Castries is another excellent place to try Green Fig and Saltfish, and many of the food stalls found in the market have their own take on the dish on offer.
Many popular restaurants serve their own delicious take on the dish, and if you are a lucky guest of one of the beautiful Islander Villas, you will find that our on-demand private chef service can offer the dish or one of our other Caribbean specialties while you kick back and enjoy the amenities of the property.
The open air market in Castries is another excellent place to try Green Fig and Saltfish, and many of the food stalls found in the market have their own take on the dish on offer.
Piton Beer
Why No Trip to St. Lucia Is Complete Without Trying Green Fig and Saltfish
At Islander, our goal is to help our guests experience St. Lucia as the natives do.
From providing cold Piton Beers to guests of our tours and transportation services to offering a private chef service on demand in our villa rentals, we want you to experience life in St. Lucia the way we live it every day.
The cuisine of the Caribbean is one that is rich with both flavor and history and Green Fig and Saltfish is no different.
Visiting the Caribbean is about taking a step from the ordinary into the extraordinary, and we promise that this dish will have your taste buds singing for more!
At Islander, our goal is to help our guests experience St. Lucia as the natives do.
From providing cold Piton Beers to guests of our tours and transportation services to offering a private chef service on demand in our villa rentals, we want you to experience life in St. Lucia the way we live it every day.
The cuisine of the Caribbean is one that is rich with both flavor and history and Green Fig and Saltfish is no different.
Visiting the Caribbean is about taking a step from the ordinary into the extraordinary, and we promise that this dish will have your taste buds singing for more!
