A Tasty Look at Salmon in Caribbean Cuisine

Discover how salmon became part of Caribbean cuisine, explore popular dishes like jerk salmon and salmon fritters, and get tips to recreate them at home!

Caribbean cuisine is flavor-packed and famous for its creative use of ingredients, including salmon. Though you might not expect to find this fish on a Caribbean menu because it isn’t native to the region, it’s on many. Today, we’re taking a tasty look at salmon in Caribbean cuisine. We’ll cover how it came to the region, popular recipes, and how to cook your own Caribbean-infused salmon at home!

How Salmon Got to the Caribbean

Salmon isn’t native to the Caribbean Sea. However, the fish made its way to the region thanks to global trade, likely beginning with imports from Western European colonizers. Because of salmon’s unique, versatile flavor, it gained popularity in local cuisine. Though the fish is far from being an iconic Caribbean ingredient, it has secured its place in many recipes and menus.

Popular Caribbean Dishes With Salmon

Chefs in the Caribbean have embraced salmon by adding their signature spices, cooking methods, and tropical flair. Here are a few must-try dishes that highlight its versatility.

Jerk Salmon

If you’ve tried classic jerk chicken or pork, you know the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors that make this dish unforgettable. Jerk salmon takes all those iconic flavors, derived from a blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and thyme, and pairs them with the buttery richness of salmon. It’s then grilled to

have a tender center and a slightly charred, flavorful crust.

Salmon Fritters

Salmon fritters are a tasty snack or appetizer. To make them, flake fresh salmon and mix it with flour, herbs, spices, and some Scotch bonnet for heat. Roll the mixture into balls and fry them until golden brown. Serve hot with a tangy dipping sauce.

Escovitch Salmon

Escovitch is a traditional Caribbean preparation of fish that features a tart, pickled sauce made with vinegar, onions, and bell peppers. When poured over perfectly cooked salmon, it creates a tangy and zesty flavor explosion. This dish pairs beautifully with rice and peas or fried plantains for a complete Caribbean meal.

Coconut Curry With Salmon

Coconut curry is a staple across the Caribbean, and when paired with salmon, the result is a comfort dish like no other. The creamy coconut milk balanced with aromatic spices coats the tender salmon beautifully. Whether served with fluffy jasmine rice or roti, this dish is a true embodiment of Caribbean warmth.

Tips for Making Salmon Dishes at Home

After learning all about salmon in Caribbean cuisine, you might be craving a plate of your own. If you live in the Caribbean, then you probably won’t be able to get fresh salmon. Still, you should avoid farmed salmon and go for frozen, wild-caught species instead. These have the most flavor and nutrition.

Then, you take the flavor to the next level with lime juice, allspice, peppers, and other Caribbean ingredients to build authentic flavors. For dishes like jerk salmon, a grill or cast-iron skillet can help you achieve the perfect char. And don’t forget to experiment with sides such as coconut rice, plantains, or mango salsa to complete the experience.

Salmon may not be native to the Caribbean, but it has found a delicious home in the region’s cuisine. Whether you’re savoring jerk salmon or indulging in a creamy coconut curry, these dishes show how this fish takes on tropical flavors beautifully. Which recipe are you going to try?