Here in Nassau, when I asked people to tell me about the national foods of The Bahamas, this is what they told me about:
Peas and rice: Rice with a pulse — from green peas, beans, lentils, etc. They even have “corn and rice” but the important thing is to get some peas and rice. I would hear people talking about it on the streets. It’s a vital part of the day.
Baked macaroni: or “mac and cheese” which is addictively delicious. It’s pasta, cheese, and a touch of jalapenos, baked with cheese on top. It can be cut like cake. Yum oh.
Cracked conch: is deep fried conch.
Johnny cakes: like corn bread but less corny.
Souse: a soup to use for dipping your johnny cakes. You can add the spicy sauce as well.
Grouper: fish — baked, boiled, steamed, and cracked (deep fried).
Fish stew (tuna) and grits: anything with grits (when it’s a ground meat sauce, then it’s called “Fire Engine” which is classic comfort food. Even for breakfast. See photo above.
Lobster: warm water spiny lobster tails. Popular in every way.
Chicken in da bag: deep fried chicken.
Ribs: barbecued.
The food in the Bahamas reminded me of foods of the American South. Comforting and hearty.
And one drink was mentioned to me.
Sky juice/gully wash: rum, coconut, and condensed milk. Too sweet for me.