Guyanese cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and spices, influenced by the country’s rich cultural heritage. From hearty stews to flavorful curries, and from sweet treats to savory snacks, Guyanese cooking has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of Guyanese cuisine.
From comfort food like Guyanese Pepperpot Stew and Cook-Up Rice with Coconut Milk, to international-inspired dishes like Chow Mein with Local Spices and Shrimp and Okra Curry, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a special event, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive deeper into each of these recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and secrets to help you bring the flavors of Guyana to your own kitchen.
Guyanese Pepperpot Stew
Guyana’s national dish, Pepperpot Stew, is a hearty and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of meat, vegetables, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or substitute with habanero), seeded and chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the beef or lamb and cook until browned.
3. Add the potatoes, beef broth, water, cumin, curry powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Guyanese Chicken Curry with Potatoes
This hearty dish is a staple of Guyanese cuisine, combining the flavors of chicken, potatoes, and spices for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onions and garlic to the pot; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; stir for 1 minute.
5. Add potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
7. Return chicken to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guyanese Cook-Up Rice with Coconut Milk
This classic Guyanese dish is a staple in many households, and when made with coconut milk, it becomes an even richer and more flavorful experience. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and curry powder; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the mixture.
5. Add the water and coconut milk; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Guyanese Fried Rice with Shrimp
This flavorful dish combines the bold spices of Guyana with the sweetness of shrimp, making it a perfect fusion of Caribbean and Asian cuisines. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with protein-rich ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper; stir for 30 seconds.
5. Add cooked rice to pan, stirring to combine with spices.
6. Return shrimp to pan and stir to combine with rice mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guyanese Roti with Dhal Puri
Experience the authentic flavors of Guyana with this classic recipe, featuring tender roti and flavorful dhal puri.
Ingredients:
For the roti:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
For the dhal puri:
– 1 cup split peas (mung beans)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. To make the roti, combine flour and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide into 4-6 portions, depending on desired thickness.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Cook roti by grilling or dry-frying for 1-2 minutes on each side.
For the dhal puri:
1. Saute onion and garlic in oil until softened.
2. Add split peas, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guyanese Black Cake for Holidays
Perfect for the holiday season, Guyanese Black Cake is a rich and flavorful dessert that’s sure to become a new tradition. This traditional cake is made with dark rum-soaked fruit, chocolate, and spices, giving it a deep, complex flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cherries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup grated chocolate or chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in dark rum, if using.
5. Fold in dried fruit, chocolate, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Guyanese Garlic Pork
This Guyanese Garlic Pork recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and pork, with a hint of Caribbean spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Guyanese-style jerk seasoning (or substitute with a blend of paprika, cumin, and coriander)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together garlic, jerk seasoning, and olive oil.
3. Add the pork pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: With your favorite sides, such as rice and peas, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Guyanese Metemgee with Dumplings
Metemgee is a classic Guyanese dish that combines tender beef, rich vegetables, and flavorful dumplings. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the beef, potatoes, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
4. To make the dumplings, mix the flour and water to form a dough. Divide into small balls and flatten slightly.
5. Add the dumplings to the pot and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Guyanese Chow Mein with Local Spices
Experience the unique fusion of East meets West in this Guyanese twist on the classic Chinese dish, infused with local spices and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or chicken strips (your choice)
– 2 cups chow mein noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Guyanese pepper pot sauce (or substitute with a similar hot sauce)
Instructions:
1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. Add beef or chicken, cook until browned.
5. Add mixed vegetables, cumin, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and Guyanese pepper pot sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guyanese Pine Tarts for Dessert
These classic Guyanese pine tarts are a staple at any gathering or celebration. With their flaky pastry crust and sweet, tangy filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapples in syrup, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
3. Place a small spoonful of pineapple filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guyanese Cassava Pone
Guyanese Cassava Pone is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of cassava with the richness of coconut and spices. This moist and flavorful pudding is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated cassava
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine grated cassava, sugar, coconut, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guyanese Fish Cake with Herbs
A flavorful twist on traditional fish cakes, this Guyanese-inspired recipe combines the freshness of herbs with the richness of fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (cod or tilapia work well), flaked and drained
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as rice and peas or fried plantains.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Guyanese Mango Chutney
This sweet and tangy condiment is a staple in Guyanese cuisine, perfect for topping roti, rice, or as a dip. With its bold flavors and vibrant color, it’s no wonder this chutney is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine mango, brown sugar, vinegar, water, ginger, and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. If desired, add chopped Scotch bonnet peppers for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Guyanese Mango Chutney!
Guyanese Bara with Tamarind Sauce
Experience the authentic flavors of Guyana with this traditional recipe that combines sweet and tangy notes. Crispy bara (flatbread) is served with a rich tamarind sauce, perfect for accompanying your favorite Caribbean dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Tamarind sauce ingredients:
+ 1 cup tamarind paste
+ 1 cup water
+ 1 tablespoon brown sugar
+ 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide into 6-8 portions. Roll out each portion into thin circles.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
5. To make the tamarind sauce, combine paste, water, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Stir until dissolved.
6. Serve warm bara with tamarind sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guyanese Pumpkin Curry
This hearty curry is a staple of Guyanese cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. With the sweetness of pumpkin and the spices of the Caribbean, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add pumpkin, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in coconut milk and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes, or until pumpkin is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guyanese Coconut Buns
These soft, fluffy buns are infused with the rich flavor of coconut and a hint of spice, making them a perfect snack or dessert. This recipe is a classic Guyanese treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or buns pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, coconut milk, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place buns on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Guyanese Egg Ball with Pepper Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Guyana with this traditional egg ball dish, paired with a spicy pepper sauce. This recipe is a staple in many Guyanese households and is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the pepper sauce:
+ 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
+ 1 onion, chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
+ Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs with a fork until well mixed.
2. Add flour, salt, and black pepper to the eggs and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Fry the egg balls in hot oil until golden brown.
6. For the pepper sauce: Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onion and cook until softened. Add chopped peppers, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guyanese Shrimp and Okra Curry
Experience the bold flavors of Guyana with this mouthwatering shrimp and okra curry. This dish is a staple in Guyanese cuisine, where succulent shrimp are paired with tender okra and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups okra, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and okra; cook until shrimp are pink, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 flavorful Guyanese recipes! From hearty stews and curries to sweet treats and savory snacks, this collection has something for every occasion. Indulge in classic dishes like Guyanese Pepperpot Stew and Chicken Curry with Potatoes, or try new twists like Coconut Milk Rice and Shrimp Fried Rice. Don’t miss out on the sweet treats, including Black Cake for holidays and Pine Tarts for dessert. With a mix of familiar ingredients and exotic spices, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant culture of Guyana.
