November 30, 2016, is an important day for many Barbadians as it represents the island’s day of independence. But, the year 2016 is especially significant as Barbados celebrates a half-century of being an independent nation! As Barbados celebrates its 50th Anniversary, what better way to celebrate than by tasting 7 Barbadian sweet treats.
1. Tamarind Balls
Tamarind seeds can be eaten most naturally straight from the tree. But, if you want to experience it in its freshest state, you will also have to deal with the acidic nature. A fond childhood memory, in its truest form, it is quite easy to eat as the shell cracks easily to reveal the fleshy tamarind. You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the contents of a tamarind seed, just be careful of the seeds and the fine roots that are right under the skin of the tamarind.
For a more commercial and sweeter taste, tamarind balls can also be found in the form of small round balls with sugar sprinkled all over to give it a sweet and sour taste!
Where Can I Find It?
You have two options! Just like the coconut tree, you can find many a tamarind trees on this island. But unlike the coconut tree, you cannot easily climb this tree, so I’d advise you to use a stick to get down what you can or simply pick up what tamarinds have been sprinkled all over the ground! In its commercial state, they can be found at any supermarket, but try a few of the rum shops as well to get the taste of a true Barbadian sweet treat!
2. Sno-Cones (Snow Cones)
‘Sno-cones’ (or snow cones) are shaved ice filled to the brim with sugary syrup which comes in a variety of colours and flavours. These sweet treats are typically sold by vendors on cart-topped bicycles with an icebox full of shaved ice with all of the flavourings attached, all under a huge bright umbrella. The variety of colours and flavours are definitely appealing not only to the eye but quite pleasing to the taste buds!
But, you must be warned, there is a technique to eating a ‘sno-cone’. If you drink it too quickly you’ll be left with a flavourless lump of ice. On the other hand, if you take your time, without a doubt you’ll be a sugary mess as the juices just overflow! Use your straw to constantly mix the ice with the syrup and you’ll enjoy this Barbadian sweet treat!
Where Can I Find It?
They are present at all popular outdoor events and you’ll also spot them hanging around the more popular beaches and in Bridgetown, ready to help you quench your thirst!
Tip: Some vendors have a variety of local flavours such as coconut, tamarind and ginger. No one says you have to stick to only one flavour so have some fun and mix it up and if you dare to take it a step further, add some sweet condensed milk to your treat! Trust me; it’s unlike anything you’ve ever had!
3. Sugar Cakes
Just as sweet as the tamarind balls but without the tartness!
Made with coconut and sugar, you’ll find the three most popular and traditional colours – white, pink and brown. But as the sugar cake evolved through the years, you’ll be sure to find them in an abundance of flavours and colours such as cheesecake, pina colada, lime daiquiri and even strawberry rum.
Where Can I Find It?
Just like the tamarind balls, sugar cakes can be found at any supermarket as well as some rum shops.
4. Coconut Water
On a hot and humid day, there is nothing quite like a cool and refreshing drink of coconut water. When you are in Barbados it’s not a problem to find fresh coconut water. You have two options, you can either find a tree to climb or just take a drive along the ABC highway of Barbados and you’ll more than likely see not just one but many coconut vendors on the side of the road selling their fresh coconut water.
What makes this experience so awe evoking is the fact that they skilfully cut it right in front of you. That’s island life!
Moreover, you have options, if you don’t want to drink it straight from the shell, the vendors do supply 1/2 gallon bottles for the price of $15 BBDs. You can also bring your own bottled and it would be priced accordingly! What’s more is that for an extra $5BBds you’ll get a small food crate filled with sweet jelly! All that we ask is that you take an Instagram-worthy picture of your experience!
Where Can I Find It?
You can catch a coconut vendor at any time of the week but the best time is on the weekends especially on Sunday mornings on the highway.
Tip: I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Coconut water is also known as a hangover remedy as it settles the stomach and replaces those essential electrolytes. So if you plan on enjoying a lot of our finest rums, stock up on some coconut water.
5. Jam Puffs
A jam puff is a triangular crust pastry stuffed with sweet strawberry jam and sprinkled golden brown sugar on top. This pastry is so delicate and satisfying that it can be eaten any time of the day!
Where Can I Find It?
You’d be able to find this sweet treat at Purity Bakeries Bread & Pastry Shoppe located at Purity Bakeries in Collymore Rock, St. Michael.
6. Tea Time Biscuits
One of Barbados’ most popular biscuits is the tea time biscuits! This delicious sandwich made by the perfect union of two crisp baked cookies and a layer of smooth cream filling is unlike no other. With flavours such as chocolate, vanilla, double chocolate and “choconilla”, these cookies are certainly a treat for the young and even the old!
Where Can I Find It?
You’d be able to find these deliciously sweet biscuits at Barbados’ longest operating bakery – the West India Biscuit Company Ltd. (WIBISCO) and any supermarket or gas station.
Tip: As Barbados celebrates their 50th Anniversary, WIBISCO specially created the Blue Vanilla Tea Time biscuits to celebrate this special occasion. So be sure to get this limited edition – #50yearsBajanStrong
#FunFact: Biscuit baking started in Barbados as far back in 1850!
7. Locally Flavoured Ice Cream from ‘Rtic Melt Ice Cream Parlour’
In a tropical island like Barbados, every day is a good day to enjoy ice cream. Everyone likes flavours such as vanilla, chocolate, peppermint, cherry, strawberry and caramel. But, Rtic takes it one step further and also specialises in the unusual flavours such as Guinness, soursop and nutmeg. Can you imagine nutmeg ice cream? I had to try it to believe it and now I am a firm believer!
I hope you love these Barbadian sweet treats as much as we do!
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