Get Cooking with Street Food Saturdays Coal Stove Experience

To top it off, additions of roasted sweet potato, ripe plantain, fried bread, fried bammy, and red herring pasta courtesy of Chef Walker-Barrett were added to the smorgasbord. Once the dishes were plated, us foodies-turned-chefs retired beneath the decorated gazebo to feast on our creations. The entire spread was full of colour, aromatic, and delicious! EVERY – SINGLE – DISH made me lick my lips in satisfaction, similar to the many times I’ve sat with friends to indulge at a Street Food Saturdays river dining event. The festival of flavours was heaped onto large dishes and enjoyed with the surrounding green and soft rush of the river in the background. Everyone packed multiple takeaway boxes for 2^nd servings, plus for sharing the culinary goodness with loved ones [allegedly].

What is a Jamaican Coal Stove?

A coal stove is a staple in Jamaican culture and households for decades. The basin-like, cast-iron pot is fueled by charcoal, which burns less over longer periods when compared to other fuels. A coal stove is traditionally used for outdoor cooking, and is especially practical when electricity or gas is unavailable. Even though stove evolution over the years has decreased the overall use of coal stoves around Jamaica, it is still very present in modern day gastronomy. It is more common in rural areas but is also called upon for roadside food stops and outdoor trips like camping and riverside/seaside retreats. I wish I had these coal stove cooking skills before a St. Thomas river cookout with friends…it’s not like I would’ve used them, but still would’ve been nice to have!

Conclusion
As someone who typically doesn’t want anyone in my space while in the kitchen, I found this open-air learning experience to be just as comfortable as it was stimulating. The al fresco atmosphere, attractive décor, unique menu, and impressive end-products set this apart from any ordinary cooking class in my opinion. The Street Food Saturdays coal stove cooking experience is exactly that― a uniquely Jamaican culinary experience!