The Vibrant Caribbean Pot Vol 2
Soup Season Cookbook
Curry Cookbook
Caribbean Christmas Ebook
Get My Cookbooks
Shop Now

One Kitchen, Many Cultures

Comfort Food

These recipes are all about cozy vibes and satisfying flavors—whether it’s a classic stew, a creamy pasta, or a warm bowl of soup. Some are Caribbean, some are fusion, and some are just downright comforting. Perfect for when you need a little extra love on the plate.

Showing: 25 - 27 of 27 Articles
Cornbread in a cast iron pan on the counter with a slice sitting on the side outside of the pan
Breads & Bakes Chris's Kitchen Comfort Food Fall Recipes Featured Fusion Grilling Side Dishes Summer Recipes Vegetarian

Easy Jalapeño Cornbread

Leave a Comment on Easy Jalapeño Cornbread

While I’ve been baking this Easy Jalapeño Cornbread for years, one of my fondest food memories takes me back to a family trip to Disney World. We were hungry, tired, and ended up with fried chicken and mini cornbread at lunch. It wasn’t anything fancy, but something about the moment —the smiles, the sun, the excitement — made it unforgettable. Sometimes, the magic of a dish is in the memory.

This cornbread brings both flavor and simplicity to the table. It’s buttery, just a little sweet, and finished with the gentle heat of diced jalapeño. I use a cast iron pan for that signature crust, but a baking dish works just as well. Whether you pair it with chili, fried chicken, or just enjoy it with a bit of butter, this one’s a winner.

The best part? It’s a great base recipe. Add cheese, corn kernels, or crumbled bacon and make it your own.

Cornbread in a cast iron pan on the counter with a slice sitting on the side outside of the pan

Ingredient Guide

  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and lightness.
  • Cornmeal: The heart of the recipe, adding texture and flavor.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the batter rise.
  • Salt: Enhances flavor throughout.
  • Jalapeño Pepper: Gives a subtle spicy kick.
  • Sugar: Balances the savory and gives a touch of sweetness.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps develop a crisp edge in the pan.
  • Eggs: Bind the batter and create a soft crumb.
  • Buttermilk: Keeps the cornbread moist and tender.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

  • Preheat the skillet with butter for a golden, crispy edge.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until the flour disappears.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1 cup milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
  • Let the cornbread rest before slicing to help it hold together.

Shopping Made Easy

  • Look for cornmeal in the baking aisle; medium or fine grind works best.
  • Fresh jalapeños are in the produce section; choose firm, green peppers.
  • If buttermilk isn’t available, use a homemade substitute with lemon juice or vinegar.
  • A cast-iron skillet isn’t essential, but it adds great texture and presentation.

Can I make this without jalapeño?

Yes! Leave it out for a classic cornbread, or swap in mild green chilies for a gentler flavor.

What’s the best way to store cornbread?

Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze cornbread?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, wrap in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months.

What meals go well with jalapeño cornbread?

It pairs beautifully with chili, soups, barbecue, or even a simple fried egg breakfast.

Can I use a different type of pepper?

Sure, try serrano for more heat or poblano for a milder taste.

Cornbread in a cast iron pan on the counter with a slice sitting on the side outside of the pan

Easy Jalapeño Cornbread

A buttery, golden cornbread with just the right touch of jalapeño heat. Simple to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly customizable.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breads & Bakes, Chris’s Kitchen, Comfort Food, Fall Recipes, Grilling, Side Dishes, Summer Recipes, Vegetarian
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cup corn meal
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 jalapeno diced fine
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Melt butter in a cast iron pan over low heat. Add diced jalapeño and cook for 1 minute to soften and infuse flavor. Let cool slightly.
    Diced jalapeño pepper sizzling in butter in a cast iron pan
  • In a large bowl, whisk the cooled butter with buttermilk, eggs, and sugar until smooth.
    Egg and spicy butter mixture in a silver bowl with a spatula on the side on a counter
  • In a separate bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
    Add in dry mixture to wet mixture and whisk
  • Pour the batter into the greased skillet or baking dish. Smooth the top.
    Cornbread batter in a cast iron pan before cooking
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    Cooked cornbread in cast iton skillet cooling on the counter
  • Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
    Cornbread in a cast iron pan on the counter with a slice sitting on the side outside of the pan
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Coconut French Toast with Caramel Passionfruit Sauce
Breakfast Chris's Kitchen Comfort Food Fall Recipes Featured Fusion Vegetarian Winter Recipes

Coconut French Toast with Banana Passion Fruit Caramel Sauce

Leave a Comment on Coconut French Toast with Banana Passion Fruit Caramel Sauce

Confession time! I’ve never been a fan of sweet foods, especially French toast. It wasn’t something I grew up eating back home in the islands either. But when a fan challenged me to put a Caribbean spin on classic French toast, I couldn’t resist. The result? This recipe right here: Coconut French Toast with Banana Passion Fruit Caramel Sauce. If you’re into French toast, you’re going to love this version, especially with that lush caramel passion fruit sauce drizzled on top. Trust me, your brunch game is about to level up!

This Caribbean-style French toast brings a tropical flair to your breakfast table. Thick slices of day-old bread are soaked in a coconut milk and egg mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection. The dish is elevated with a rich banana and passion fruit caramel sauce, making it a decadent treat for brunch or a special breakfast.

French toast

Ingredient Guide

  • Bread: Use day-old bread, sliced ¾–1 inch (2–2.5 cm) thick, to absorb the coconut batter without falling apart.
  • Coconut Milk: Provides a creamy, tropical flavor base for both the batter and the caramel sauce.
  • Passion Fruit: Adds a tangy brightness to the caramel sauce; use the pulp for best results.
  • Bananas: Sliced ripe bananas contribute sweetness and texture to the topping.
  • Brown Sugar: Golden brown sugar is ideal for creating a rich, amber caramel.
  • Spices: Nutmeg, cinnamon, and ground ginger infuse warmth and depth into the dish.
  • Maple Syrup: Enhances the caramel sauce with natural sweetness and complexity.

Shopping Made Easy

  • Bread: Opt for sturdy, day-old bread like brioche or challah, available at most bakeries or grocery stores.
  • Coconut Milk: Found in the international or canned goods aisle; choose full-fat for a richer flavor.
  • Passion Fruit: Look for fresh passion fruit in the produce section; if unavailable, check the frozen fruit aisle for pulp.
  • Bananas: Select ripe bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.
  • Spices: Nutmeg, cinnamon, and ground ginger are commonly found in the spice aisle.
  • Maple Syrup: Available in the breakfast or natural foods section; use pure maple syrup for best taste.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

  • Allow the bread slices to soak thoroughly in the coconut batter for maximum flavor absorption.
  • Monitor the sugar closely as it melts to prevent burning; aim for a golden amber color before adding other ingredients.
  • Cook the French toast on medium-low heat to ensure even browning and thorough cooking without burning.
  • Top the French toast with the warm banana passion fruit caramel sauce just before serving for the best texture and flavor

Coconut French Toast with Caramel Passionfruit Sauce

Coconut French Toast with Banana Passion Fruit Caramel Sauce

This Caribbean-inspired French toast combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the tropical flavors of banana and passion fruit, creating a delightful dish perfect for brunch or a special breakfast treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast, Chris’s Kitchen, Comfort Food, Fall Recipes, Vegetarian, Winter Recipes
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices Bread one day old, ¾–1 inch / 2–2.5 cm thick
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch salt optional

For the Banana Passion Fruit Caramel Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons golden brown sugar
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 passion fruit pulp only
  • 2 ripe bananas sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

For Cooking

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1 cup coconut milk, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt if using.
    French toast batter in a red roasting dish with a whisk laid on the side
  • Place the bread slices in the batter, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak until the mixture is absorbed.
    Sliced bread in dish with french toast batter
  • In a non-stick saucepan over medium heat, melt the brown sugar until it becomes frothy and amber-colored. Carefully add the coconut milk, whisking continuously. Stir in the ground ginger and a pinch of salt. 
    Caramel sauce in large sauté pan
  • Add the passion fruit pulp and sliced bananas, mixing well to coat. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the butter and maple syrup, stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
    Add in banana
  • Heat the butter and coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Flip the slices a couple more times, cooking for an additional 2 minutes per side to ensure they are cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
    Toasting bread for french toast
  • Cut the French toast slices into triangles if desired and top with the warm banana passion fruit caramel sauce. Serve immediately!
    French toast
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Garlic herbed mushrooms in a red pot with a wooden spoon
Chris's Kitchen Comfort Food Featured Fusion Side Dishes Vegetarian Winter Recipes

Garlic Herb Mushrooms

Leave a Comment on Garlic Herb Mushrooms

Nothing about Garlic Herb Mushrooms is Caribbean, but this recipe became one of the most requested dishes after I posted a photo on Instagram and featured it in my #MeatFreeMondays series on YouTube. Button mushrooms are transformed with butter, olive oil, garlic, fresh thyme, and a splash of white wine into an elegant side that’s ready in minutes.

I recommend cleaning mushrooms under running water and patting them dry; that’s just my style. Cooking in a wide pan allows each mushroom to get direct contact with the surface, creating beautiful color and flavor. You’ll finish with a quick wine deglaze and a final sauté to coat everything in garlic-herb goodness. This versatile side pairs beautifully with steaks, pasta, or your favorite vegan main dishes.

Garlic herbed mushrooms in a red pot with a wooden spoon

Ingredient Guide

  • Button Mushrooms: Firm, clean mushrooms that soak up flavor beautifully.
  • Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the mushrooms.
  • Butter: Enhances color and flavor during sautéing.
  • Onion: Provides a savory base.
  • Garlic: Central to the dish’s bold flavor profile.
  • Thyme Sprigs: Fresh herb that complements mushrooms specifically.
  • Parsley: Brightens the finished dish.
  • White Wine: Deglazes the pan and adds acidity and depth.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a gentle heat.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

  • I always wash mushrooms; drying them completely ensures they brown well instead of steaming.
  • Use a wide pan so each mushroom touches the bottom—this ensures caramelization.
  • Larger mushrooms should be halved for even cooking.
  • Deglaze with wine, apple juice, or vegetable stock to release flavorful bits from the pan.
  • Add garlic and herbs at the end on low heat to prevent burning and preserve freshness.

Shopping Made Easy

  • Button mushrooms are found in the produce section—choose firm, dry specimens.
  • Fresh thyme and parsley can be found near other fresh herbs. Buy just before cooking for best quality.
  • White wine adds depth here; if you’d rather not use alcohol, replace it with vegetable stock or apple juice.
  • Pre-minced garlic is convenient, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.

Can I use other mushrooms?

Yes, cremini or baby bella mushrooms work well. Just adjust cooking time for size.

What’s an alcohol-free substitute for white wine?

Apple juice or vegetable stock makes a great non-alcoholic deglazing option.

How long will mushrooms stay fresh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely. Use plant-based butter or just extra olive oil.

What dishes pair best with garlic herb mushrooms?

They’re perfect alongside grilled steak, roast chicken, pasta, or as a topping for toast or polenta.

Garlic herbed mushrooms in a red pot with a wooden spoon

Garlic Herb Mushrooms

Savory sautéed mushrooms with garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of white wine—elegant, easy, and ideal for meat-free meals or as a side dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Chris’s Kitchen, Comfort Food, Side Dishes, Vegetarian, Winter Recipes
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound button mushrooms cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3-5 cloves garlic crushed
  • 3-4 sprigs thyme
  • 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3-4 tablespoons white wine
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a wide pan over medium heat. Add onion and sauté gently for 3 minutes.
    Butter, olive oil, and onion in a large pot on the stove
  • Increase heat to medium-high and add mushrooms (halved if large). Cook for 7–9 minutes until they shrink and caramelize.
    Add in mushrooms to pot
  • Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan. Cook 1 minute.
    Mushrooms cooking in pot on the stove
  • Reduce heat to low and add garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat.
    Add in garlic and other seasoning to pot
  • Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until garlic is fragrant but not browned.
     
    Stirring cooked ingredients in pot with a wooden spoon
  • Serve hot with your favorite dishes.
    Garlic herbed mushrooms in a red pot with a wooden spoon
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!