Like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is a U.S. territory in the Caribbean. But it has a unique culture that makes it different from the U.S. mainland or fellow territories.

According to Visit USVI, the U.S. Virgin Islands chain has a lot of delicious dishes, particularly seafood. They also have their most famous dish called fungi, which has nothing to do with mushrooms.

The territory, which is composed of three large islands, also has plenty of delicious and hearty soups.

5 Dishes to Try Out While in the U.S. Virgin Islands

While this U.S. territory is more well known for its picturesque beaches and relaxing vacation vibes, the U.S. Virgin Islands also boast a rich and delicious culinary tradition. Here are five dishes you should try when you visit this Caribbean paradise. 

Fish and Fungi

When you say "fungi" in the U.S. Virgin Islands, it does not necessarily mean you are eating mushrooms. In the territory, it is read as "foon-jee," and is made with cornmeal and served much like polenta or grits.

Its creation dates back to Danish rule of the islands and is often paired with salt herring. This tender polenta-like dumpling is a popular foundation for island meals, and everybody in the USVI eats them.

Johnny Cakes

This is not really a cake, but it is more of a bread or a biscuit, depending on who you ask. Jamaicans.com noted that this is widely eaten around the Caribbean and is often made from unleavened dough and can be eaten hot or cold as an accompaniment to main dishes. They are usually deep-fried, but there are also baked variants.

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Callaloo

The U.S. Virgin Islands is home to descendants of freed slaves from Africa, and Callaloo is a rich soup that shows off the territory's West African roots.

According to The Hills St. John, it typically uses chicken broth as its base and is cooked with meat, okra, hot and black peppers, and thyme, with a healthy sprinkling of green leafy vegetables such as dasheen plant or spinach. It is often served over a ball of fungi.

Pates

These savory pies are basically the USVI's answer to Jamaican patties. While spelled differently in the U.S. territory, they are still read as "patties" in the islands.

Much like the Jamaican version, and empanadas, these savory pies are often deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Ground beef is a common topping, but some variants are stuffed with chicken or saltfish instead.

Red Grout

We are ending the list with a dessert and have picked the Red Grout. These sweets are traditionally served on Transfer Day, a holiday commemorating the transfer of the Virgin Islands from Denmark to the U.S.

Usually, these are made with homegrown tropical fruits such as guava and rum. Other ingredients like tapioca are also mixed in.

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Written by: Rick Martin

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