What A Typical Breakfast Looks Like In The Bahamas

Each year, with the arrival of winter and not-so-pleasant weather, many of our minds tune instantly to beachy vacation spots. Naturally, the Caribbean islands of the Bahamas are one of the most sought-after destinations in the world due to balmy weather and beautiful landscapes. During the cold and dreary winter days, who wouldn't want to go snorkeling and scuba diving in the Bahamian turquoise waters, then relax on white sand beaches? But the Bahamas are not just famous for their water-related activities — they also boast tons of interesting local foods. Fresh seafood is the most prized Bahamian delicacy, with conch (also known as scungilli), lobster, and crabs taking the top spots in popularity (via Sandals). 

People may be surprised to learn that Bahamians love to eat mac and cheese as an accompaniment to many meals, and their version of the dish is made even tastier with the addition of peppers, onions, herbs, spices, evaporated milk, and eggs, per Nassau Paradise Island. Another popular side dish is peas and rice, consisting of pigeon peas cooked with tomatoes, rice, and onions. And some might say that the best thing to do in the Bahamas is wake up in the morning and fuel up with a satisfying breakfast before going for a swim. Here are the dishes that this appealing activity might entail.

Bahamas.com reports that a typical Bahamian breakfast consists of two elements: grits and fire engine. Grits (made from cornmeal) are commonly enjoyed with foods such as tuna salad or steamed sardines, typically served with avocado slices on the side. But what's a fire engine? TasteAtlas reveals that the fun-to-use term is another name for steamed corned beef, cooked with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and thyme. The dish is considered a perfect hangover cure that should be eaten in the sunny morning hours, dolloped over grits or white rice. And let's not forget about delicious conch fritters and conch salads that are enjoyed almost everywhere on the islands.

People must drink a lot of alcohol in the Bahamas, because there's another breakfast dish that's lauded as a hangover cure, and it's called souse. This stew is made with meat (oftentimes, chicken), veggies, lime juice, and bay leaves. And don't leave without tasting johnnycake, the Bahamian bread that's similar to the American cornbread recipe. Johnnycakes are often served with stews such as souse, as well as curries (via Gamin Traveler). If you're visiting the Bahamas, this array of options may make it hard to go easy on the breakfast before that morning swim.