Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Authentic Cou Cou and Flying Fish

Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered what is the national dish of Barbados, look no further than Cou Cou and Flying Fish. This is a recipe, but it is more of a cultural icon: creamy cornmeal and okra (the cou cou) and delicately-seasoned flying fish, usually pan-fried or steamed to the point of perfection.

At Good Food and More, we are more than just enthusiastic about the celebration of international cuisines. So we have compiled this guide to enable you to learn how to play Bajan Cou Coupe and Flying Fish at home, as well as to understand why it has had such a special place in the heritage of Barbados.

What is Cou Cou and Flying Fish?

Cou Cou is cornmeal cooked into a smooth meal with okra and a lot of stirring - a culinary tradition of African origin. Paired with flying fish of Barbados, which once filled the island’s waters in abundance, the dish became the official Barbados national food.

Today, it is consumed locally and by food lovers across the world. Bajan Cou Coupe or Coupecou Barbados is a simple but tasty combination that is commonly eaten on weekends or at a party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cou Cou:

• 2 cups cornmeal
  
• 4 cups water
  
• 4 fresh okra, sliced
  
• 1 tablespoon butter
  
• Salt to taste
  

For the Flying Fish:

• 4 fresh flying fish fillets (or tilapia/snapper substitute)
  
• Juice of 1 lime
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon thyme
  
• 1 teaspoon paprika
  
• Salt and black pepper
  
• 2 tablespoons oil

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Cou Cou and Flying Fish

Step 1: Preparing the Cou Cou

1. Boil water with sliced okra until tender.
   
2. Strain okra, reserving the water.
   
3. Gradually whisk in cornmeal, stirring constantly.
   
4. Add cooked okra back, stirring with a wooden cou cou stick until thick and smooth.
   
5. Mix in butter and season lightly with salt.
   

Step 2: Seasoning the Flying Fish

1. Rinse fish in lime juice.
   
2. Rub with garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Marinate 10–15 minutes.
   

Step 3: Cooking the Fish

• Pan-fry: Heat oil and cook fish 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
  
• Steam: Cook fish with onions, tomatoes, and herbs for a lighter version.
  

Step 4: Serving

• Place a mound of cou cou on the plate.
  
• Lay the fish on top of or beside it.
  
• Garnish with pepper sauce, gravy, or pickled vegetables.

Why Cou Cou and Flying Fish is the National Dish of Barbados

Cou Coupe symbolizes the strength and tradition of African-based cornmeal, and the flying fish symbolizes the seafarer nature of Barbados. Combined, flying fish and cou cou Barbados style capture both history and pride, so it is not a surprise that it is the Barbados national dish recipe.

Tips for Success

• Stir cou cou constantly for smooth, lump-free results.
  
• Use lime to freshen the fish and deepen flavor.
  
• Serve with traditional Bajan pepper sauce for authenticity.
  
• Explore variations across the island — we’ve highlighted 7 unique cou cou and flying fish varieties on our blog at Good Food and More.

Conclusion

Making Cou Cou and Flying Fish in your own kitchen is a sort of tasting of Barbados without the need to travel. It is healthy, traditional, and closely connected to the Caribbean culture.

At Good Food and More, we believe food should always tell a story. That is why we do not only serve you recipes but also the cultural travels as well. To explore more, check out our feature on 7 Cou Cou and Flying Fish Varieties You Will Find Across Barbados.

FAQs

1. What is Cou Cou in Barbados?
It is a meal of cornmeal and okra stirred to a thick smooth blend.

2. Why is Cou Cou and Flying Fish the national dish of Barbados?
Due to its representational value of the African heritage (cou cou) as well as the local tradition of the seafood (flying fish).

3. Can I make Cou Cou without okra?
Yes, though okra makes it traditionally textured. Typical substitutes include pumpkin or breadfruit.

4. What does flying fish taste like?
It is light and tender just like tilapia or snapper.

5. What if I can’t find flying fish?
Use other small white fish such as tilapia, mackerel, or snapper.

6. Is Cou Cou and Flying Fish healthy?
Yes! It is naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and a good balance with cozy cornmeal.