Easter traditions in Jamaica are not very expansive but one thing is for sure, it isn’t just a holiday; it’s a grand culinary expedition. Families unite not just in spirit but in an almost insatiable appetite for tradition-rich dishes. As Easter approaches, supermarkets transform into bustling hubs of excitement, with everyone grabbing essentials to make the holiday memorable. And let’s be honest, even if you’re flying solo or with friends, there are certain items you just can’t do without if you want to get into the real Easter vibe. So, let’s dive into the 12 must-haves that should be in your shopping cart if you are Jamaican. Also, if it does become obvious, in Jamaica fish isn’t just a dish; it’s practically a festival all on its own during Easter.

1. Jamaican Easter Bun & Tastee Cheese – This dynamic duo is the backbone of Easter snacking. Even if your boss handed you a bun and a tin of Tastee cheese as a “gift,” trust me, you’ll want more. Because is it even Easter if you don’t have bun and cheese at every conceivable opportunity?

2. Sprat Fish – These little guys are your go-to for a quick fish sandwich that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Think of them as the fast food of the sea, but way tastier and without the drive-thru.

3. Parrot Fish – If you’re gunning for the dinner of champions, aka escovitch, parrot fish is your MVP. It’s like the fish was made for soaking up all that spicy, vinegary goodness making for a key part of the Easter tradition in Jamaica.

4. Red Snapper & Callaloo – Planning a big family cookout? Then you better be swimming in snappers. They’re like the canvas for your culinary art, be it stuffed with callaloo or dressed in escovitch finery.

5. Red Bonnet Pepper – Fish dishes without a kick are like a dancehall without music. Red bonnet peppers are the soul of the party, ensuring your meals have the right amount of fire.

6. Bread – Essential for when you absolutely need to make sandwiches for the kiddos aim to take advantage of the surplus of bun and cheese or anyone who thinks they might turn into a bun and cheese if they eat one more slice.

7. Bammy – No Easter tradition in Jamaica is complete without bammy, the side dish that dreams are made of. Soak it in some butter and milk, fry it, and watch it disappear faster than your cousin at dishwashing time.

8. Festival Mix – Kids and adults alike can’t resist festivals. These sweet, doughy delights are the perfect sidekick to any fish dish, and making them is half the fun.

9. Vinegar – This isn’t just for cleaning; it’s the secret ingredient to killer escovitch. It’s like the fairy godmother to fish, transforming it from good to “where have you been all my life?”

10. Small Chicken – For the fish skeptics or just to mix things up, a small chicken is your plan B. Because sometimes, someone always wants jerk chicken, and who are we to say no?

11. Fish Soup Mix – As the evening chills, a spicy fish soup can feel like a warm hug. This mix is your ticket to elevating a simple dish into a pot of gold.

12. Wray and Nephew Rum – No Jamaican gathering is complete without it, especially if there’s a heated game of dominoes happening. It’s the liquid joy that brings us all together.

So, there you have it, a basket full of Easter essentials that scream Jamaica. With fish taking center stage, it’s not just about honoring Lent; it’s about celebrating with the flavors that bring us home, no matter where we are.