Omega Beausoliel wins culinary competition, know five best Saint Lucian cuisines

Castries, Saint Lucia: Omega Beausoliel of Choiseul Secondary School won the culinary competition hosted by Saint Lucia as a part of the week-long activities for Tourism Week 2023. 

The competition was conducted to highlight the diversity and richness of local cuisine. The event shed light on the significance of culinary arts in promoting and enhancing the island nation’s tourism sector.

It is to be noted that the positions of the first and second runners-up were bagged by Wincess Naughton from the National Skills Development Centre (NSDC) and McKelly Isembert from Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), respectively.

In order to felicitate the winners, the Ministry of Tourism conducted a prize-giving ceremony. The ceremony was held with the vision of motivating the upcoming generation who aspires to explore their culinary talents and contribute to the island nation’s tourism sector.

The top three winners were awarded the cash, trophies and chef’s start-up bags for their excellent performance in the Culinary Competition.

Moreover, Saint Lucia is a beautiful combination of American, European, Indian and Caribbean flavours. The cuisine of the island nation is a perfect blend of British, French and Creole. The unique and delicious delicacies of the nation highlight the unique and rich cultural heritage of the island nation.

Must try the cuisines of Saint Lucia

Green Fig and Saltfish 

Green Fig and Saltfish are considered as the national dish of the island nation. This dish consists of stewed fish, which is usually sold dried and salted, and it is boiled with green bananas. The green bananas are usually referred to as green figs. This dish is often served during the Jounen Kweyol festival.

Banana Cake 

Saint Lucia’s famous Banana cake is filled with nuts and spices as well as mashed fresh bananas. This delicious Caribbean dessert is enjoyed by visitors of the island nation. This sweet dish is considered the top choice by the people who have a sweet tooth. Also, it is a better and healthier alternative to a regular cake.

Accra 

One of the local favourite snacks of Saint Lucia is Accra, which is sold by mostly street food vendors and grills on the island. It is made from salted codfish, packed into a ball, and then seasoned heavily before being deep-fried. It is loved not only by the citizens but also by the visitors of the island nation.

Breadfruit balls

Breadfruit balls are a traditional snack which has been originated from Saint Lucia. It is usually a combination of breadfruit, onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheese, salt and garlic. This snack is one of the most popular food items in Dominica. They are deep-fried balls which are enjoyed by many locals and visitors.

Callaloo Soup

Callaloo soup is one of the most popular dishes in the Caribbean. It is a traditional Caribbean soup which has been created by the influence of Africa. The soup is served with a combination of soft spinach greens.

Such competitions not only play a pivotal role in enhancing tourism but also the rich cultural heritage of the island nation.