I love sharing traditional Caribbean dishes that bring comfort and flavor to the table. One of my favorites is Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing Recipe.
This dish is a staple in many homes, especially during the holidays. It has a rich, slightly sweet taste with a perfect blend of herbs and spices. Unlike regular stuffing, this one features mashed potatoes, bell peppers, raisins, and a touch of sweetness.
I grew up enjoying it alongside roasted meats and festive meals. The golden-baked top adds a delicious texture that makes every bite special.
Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a Sunday dinner, this recipe never disappoints. I’ll guide you through each step so you can recreate this Caribbean favorite in your own kitchen.
Can You Eat This Recipe Every Day?
You can enjoy this Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing Recipe occasionally, but I wouldn’t recommend eating it every day.
While it has nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and raisins, it also contains added sugar and fats, which should be consumed in moderation.
The dish is rich in carbohydrates, so eating it daily might not be ideal if you’re watching your carb intake. However, you can make it healthier by reducing the sugar, using less oil, or adding more vegetables.
If you balance it with lean proteins and fiber-rich foods, you can enjoy it more often without worry. Like any comfort food, it’s best enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.
How To Prepare Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing Recipe?
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Difficulty: Moderate
Cuisine: Caribbean
Yield: 6 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher or immersion blender
- Frying pan
- Baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 to 2½ pounds white sweet potatoes (or regular white potatoes)
- 4 tablespoons vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup onion, minced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup green bell peppers, minced
- ½ cup red bell peppers, minced
- 2 tablespoons celery, minced
- ⅓ cup raisins
- ¼ cup coconut sugar (or raw cane sugar)
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pink salt, to taste
- Almond milk, as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then chop them into chunks.
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender.
- Drain the water and transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl. Mash them with vegan butter until smooth. Add a splash of almond milk if a creamier texture is desired.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add minced onion and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds.
- Add the bell peppers, celery, and raisins, cooking for an additional minute.
- Stir in coconut sugar, tomato paste, parsley, thyme, black pepper, and cinnamon. Cook for another minute until the mixture takes on a reddish hue.
Combining and Baking
- Fold the sautéed mixture into the mashed potatoes, ensuring even distribution.
- Season with pink salt to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 287 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 234mg
- Potassium: 741mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 13g
- Vitamin A: 21,744 IU
- Vitamin C: 19mg
- Calcium: 57mg
- Iron: 2mg
Serving Suggestions
Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as turkey or chicken. It’s also delightful alongside other Caribbean sides like seasoned rice,
baked macaroni and cheese, or coleslaw. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a hearty salad or grilled vegetables.
Tips and Variations
- Potato Choice: While white sweet potatoes are traditional, regular white potatoes can be used if unavailable.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of coconut sugar to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead: Peel and chop the potatoes a day in advance, storing them in water in the refrigerator to save time.
- Herb Substitutions: If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can be used.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days.
Health Benefits
This Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing Recipe isn’t just delicious—it also has some great health benefits. Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.
They’re also rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts the immune system. The bell peppers add a dose of vitamin C, helping with collagen production and overall immunity.
Raisins bring natural sweetness along with antioxidants and iron, which promote healthy blood circulation. Using olive oil instead of traditional fats makes this dish heart-friendly.
Plus, the herbs and spices offer anti-inflammatory benefits. This comforting dish isn’t just about flavor—it also provides essential nutrients that nourish the body while satisfying the taste buds.
How Store ?
To store Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed container for up to a month.
When reheating, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of almond milk if it looks dry.
Conclusion
This Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing Recipe is a delicious and comforting Caribbean classic. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for special occasions or a cozy meal.
The mix of sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and raisins creates a unique taste that stands out. Whether you serve it with roasted meats or enjoy it on its own,
it’s a dish that brings warmth and tradition to the table. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out. I’m sure you’ll love every bite!