National Dish Trinidad and Tobago: Dasheen Pie (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Dasheen Pie, a comforting baked classic from Trinidad and Tobago that turns the humble taro root into something truly special. Creamy coconut, melting cheese and fragrant herbs come together over tender dasheen in a dish that captures the warmth of Caribbean home cooking. Whether you are a devoted foodie or simply curious about island flavours, this recipe brings a taste of the tropics to your table.
About Dasheen Pie
Dasheen Pie is a hearty, delicious dish from Trinidad and Tobago, distinguished by its unique combination of dasheen (also known as taro), fragrant herbs and creamy ingredients. It is not only a real treat for the palate but also a reflection of the rich culture and tradition of the Caribbean. In many households across the region, dasheen pie is served not just on special occasions but as part of everyday meals — alongside staples such as Callaloo. It is a perfect example of how wholesome, local ingredients can come together in the most delicious way.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 300 g dasheen (taro)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 200 ml coconut cream
- 50 g grated cheese
- Fresh herbs (e.g. parsley, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for dasheen pie, it is important to pay attention to quality. Fresh dasheen is crucial to the flavour of the dish, so it is best sought out in an Asian or Caribbean grocery shop. The herbs should also be fresh, as they lend the dish its aromatic note. Consider choosing organic ingredients too, to bring out the natural character of the flavours.
Preparing the dish
Good preparation is the key to a successful dasheen pie. Start by peeling the dasheen and cutting it into even pieces so that it cooks through uniformly. The onion and garlic should also be fresh, as they give the dish an intense depth of flavour. Thorough preparation also includes washing the herbs and getting the baking dish ready for the oven later on.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring the dasheen to the boil in a pan of water and cook for around 15–20 minutes until soft.
- Drain the softened dasheen and mash it to a purée.
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a pan with a little oil until translucent.
- Combine the puréed dasheen, the coconut cream, the grated cheese and the chopped herbs in a bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25–30 minutes.
- Allow to cool briefly after baking, then serve.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Dasheen pie is easy to make gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone with food intolerances. Simply use a lactose-free alternative to the coconut cream, or leave out the cheese entirely and replace it with a plant-based option. Since dasheen itself is naturally gluten-free, there is nothing to worry about with the other ingredients, as long as they are also labelled gluten-free. Enjoy this version without any restrictions!
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans, dasheen pie is a great dish because it is so easy to adapt. Instead of cheese you can use plant-based cheese varieties, or prepare the dish without cheese altogether. The coconut cream can likewise be swapped for another plant-based cream alternative. Always aim for fresh, natural ingredients to achieve the best possible flavour.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tips can lift your dasheen pie experience. Experiment with different herbs and spices to add your own signature touch — a pinch of nutmeg, for instance, brings extra warmth to the flavour. You can also play with the consistency of the pie by using more or less coconut cream, depending on your preference.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Dasheen pie is remarkably adaptable. You can add vegetables such as spinach or courgette to the mixture to pack in even more nutrients — much like the greens used in a Dasheen Bush Bhaji. The type of cheese can also be varied to suit different palates. Each of these changes can deliver a new and exciting result that strengthens the character of the dish even further.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are several alternatives worth considering. Coconut cream, for example, can be replaced with almond milk if you prefer a different texture or fewer calories. Grated cheese can be swapped for nutritional yeast to achieve a robust, cheese-like flavour that is perfect for vegans. Bear in mind that adaptations like these can still preserve the essential character of the dasheen pie.
Drink pairing ideas
A delightful companion to your dasheen pie is a fresh fruit juice or a Caribbean lemonade — a homemade Ginger Beer works beautifully too. The sweet, refreshing notes of these drinks harmonise perfectly with the hearty flavour of the pie. A well-chilled beer can also round off a successful dinner. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match!
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation is an important part of serving dasheen pie. Serve the pie with a fresh green salad and garnish it with fresh herbs. A drizzle of olive oil on the plate not only looks appealing but also enhances the flavour of the dish. Your guests will be won over not just by the taste but by the appearance of the pie as well!
A bit of history
The preparation of dasheen pie has its roots in Caribbean cuisine, which is wonderfully diverse and rich. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, it is a prime example of the art of cooking in this region. Dasheen itself is a traditional staple food that has been prized by the local population for centuries. The history and preparation of dasheen pie are closely bound up with the cultural traditions and gastronomic variety of the Caribbean.
More recipe ideas
- Callaloo Soup — a delicious Caribbean leafy-green soup.
- Roti — flatbread that is often filled with curry.
- Pelau — a hearty rice dish with chicken and pigeon peas.
- Fried Plantains — golden fried plantains served on the side.
Summary: Dasheen Pie
Dasheen pie is not just another dish; it is a culinary experience that transports you straight to the Caribbean. With its combination of tender dasheen, fragrant herbs and creamy ingredients, it offers a flavour experience like no other. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or simply a lover of Caribbean cooking, dasheen pie will win you over with its variety and depth. Let this dish inspire you and enjoy a piece of the rich culture of Trinidad and Tobago!
