(a) The Legislature of the Virgin Islands finds and declares that:(1) The Virgin Islands boasts a rich culinary and cultural heritage that deserves recognition and celebration. “Fish and Fungi” stands as an iconic representation of our local cuisine, embodying the flavors, traditions, and history of our region.(2) “Fish” refers to a diverse array of aquatic species found in the Caribbean waters. These species include a wide variety of finfish and shellfish commonly used in Caribbean cuisine. Fish can be prepared through various cooking methods, including baking, boiling, stewing, and frying. The culinary preparation of fish is an integral part of the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage, and it showcases the unique flavors and traditions associated with the Virgin Islands’ seafood offerings. Fish is a significant component of the local diet. It is celebrated for its versatility in dishes, predominantly “Fish and Fungi,” that captures the essence of the Virgin Islands’ culinary excellence.(3) “Fungi” (pronounced foon-JEE) is a traditional dish consisting of a cooked yellow cornmeal mixture that is often dotted with tender okra and thinned with chunks of butter. The dish has deep cultural roots, with its origins traced back to Africans from Kongo-Angola, who called their version of this dish “infundi.” Over time, it evolved into “funji” in Barbados, Antigua, Barbuda, as well as in the Virgin Islands. It is also known by its Senegambian name, “cou-cou,” in these same places. Fungi represents a significant culinary tradition that showcases the fusion of African and Caribbean influences, reflecting the diverse and rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands.(4) A “Tart” (pronounced taart) is a traditional Caribbean baked delicacy that bears a resemblance to an American pie. A tart has a unique, dense, and savory homemade crust, crafted with care and expertise. The crust of a tart is known for its exceptional flavor and texture, and it serves as the foundation for a delectable filling that features a variety of sweet tropical fruits. Tarts are celebrated for their rich, mouthwatering flavor and are a beloved baked good throughout the entire Caribbean region. Tarts have a deep cultural connection to the Caribbean, having been introduced to the region by our West African ancestors, and continue to be a cherished culinary tradition that reflects the vibrant and diverse heritage of the Virgin Islands.
(1) The Virgin Islands boasts a rich culinary and cultural heritage that deserves recognition and celebration. “Fish and Fungi” stands as an iconic representation of our local cuisine, embodying the flavors, traditions, and history of our region.
(2) “Fish” refers to a diverse array of aquatic species found in the Caribbean waters. These species include a wide variety of finfish and shellfish commonly used in Caribbean cuisine. Fish can be prepared through various cooking methods, including baking, boiling, stewing, and frying. The culinary preparation of fish is an integral part of the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage, and it showcases the unique flavors and traditions associated with the Virgin Islands’ seafood offerings. Fish is a significant component of the local diet. It is celebrated for its versatility in dishes, predominantly “Fish and Fungi,” that captures the essence of the Virgin Islands’ culinary excellence.
(3) “Fungi” (pronounced foon-JEE) is a traditional dish consisting of a cooked yellow cornmeal mixture that is often dotted with tender okra and thinned with chunks of butter. The dish has deep cultural roots, with its origins traced back to Africans from Kongo-Angola, who called their version of this dish “infundi.” Over time, it evolved into “funji” in Barbados, Antigua, Barbuda, as well as in the Virgin Islands. It is also known by its Senegambian name, “cou-cou,” in these same places. Fungi represents a significant culinary tradition that showcases the fusion of African and Caribbean influences, reflecting the diverse and rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands.
(4) A “Tart” (pronounced taart) is a traditional Caribbean baked delicacy that bears a resemblance to an American pie. A tart has a unique, dense, and savory homemade crust, crafted with care and expertise. The crust of a tart is known for its exceptional flavor and texture, and it serves as the foundation for a delectable filling that features a variety of sweet tropical fruits. Tarts are celebrated for their rich, mouthwatering flavor and are a beloved baked good throughout the entire Caribbean region. Tarts have a deep cultural connection to the Caribbean, having been introduced to the region by our West African ancestors, and continue to be a cherished culinary tradition that reflects the vibrant and diverse heritage of the Virgin Islands.
(b) “Fish and Fungi” is the official dish of the Virgin Islands and “Tart” is the official dessert of the Virgin Islands.