The Delicious World of Trinidadian Doubles: A Taste of Street Food Culture
If you’ve ever visited Trinidad and Tobago, chances are you’ve heard of doubles or even had the pleasure of tasting them. Doubles are one of the most popular street foods in Trinidad, and they’re loved by locals and visitors alike. These delicious treats are more than just food—they’re a symbol of Trinidadian culture, history, and the vibrant energy of the island. Today, let’s dive into the world of doubles, exploring what makes them special and why they’ve become such an important part of Trinidadian street food culture.
What Are Doubles?
Doubles are a simple yet flavorful dish made of curried chickpeas (also called channa) and two pieces of soft, fried dough called bara. The combination of the chickpeas and bara creates a delicious and satisfying snack that is bursting with flavor. What makes doubles even better is the wide variety of toppings and sauces you can choose to add, such as tamarind sauce, cucumber chutney, pepper sauce, or shadow beni (a local herb similar to cilantro) sauce. Doubles are typically served on a piece of paper or foil, making them the perfect grab-and-go street food.
Despite how simple they may look, doubles are packed with bold spices and flavors that reflect the multicultural influence of Trinidad’s cuisine. The bara often has hints of turmeric, cumin, and other spices, while the curried chickpeas are rich, savory, and slightly spicy. Every bite is a colorful burst of flavor that truly represents Trinidad’s food heritage.
A Brief History of Doubles
Doubles have their roots in Trinidad’s Indian heritage, which dates back to the mid-19th century. When Indian workers arrived on the island under British colonial rule, they brought with them their culinary traditions, including dishes like roti, curry, and channa. Over time, these recipes were adapted and combined with local ingredients and cooking styles, resulting in unique creations like doubles.
The dish itself is said to have been invented in the 1930s by a man named Emamool Deen in Princes Town, Trinidad. At first, it was sold as a single piece of bara stuffed with curried chickpeas. As the demand for the snack grew, Emamool decided to add a second piece of bara, and the name “doubles” was born. From those humble beginnings, doubles quickly spread across the island and became a national favorite.
Doubles as Street Food
One of the reasons doubles are so beloved is their accessibility. You can find doubles stands all across Trinidad, from bustling city streets to quiet village corners. These stands are often run by vendors who have been making doubles for decades, perfecting their recipes handed down through generations. The vendors usually rise early in the morning to prepare everything fresh, so by the time locals head out to buy breakfast, the spicy aroma of doubles fills the air.
Yes, you read that right—doubles are often eaten for breakfast! In Trinidad, it’s common to grab a warm, freshly-made doubles as your first meal of the day. However, doubles are so versatile and delicious that they’re enjoyed any time—mid-morning, lunch, or even a late-night snack after a party. It’s a dish that fits seamlessly into everyday life.
To buy doubles, you simply walk up to the vendor’s stand, place your order, and watch as they expertly assemble the dish right in front of you. Many vendors will ask how much pepper sauce you’d like, since some people enjoy their doubles extra spicy, while others prefer a milder flavor. Once your doubles are ready, you can eat them on the spot or take them with you. Either way, they’re best eaten fresh, while the bara is still soft and slightly warm.
The Culture Around Doubles
Doubles are more than just food—they’re part of Trinidad’s social fabric. Stopping by a doubles stand often leads to friendly conversations with the vendor or fellow customers. It’s a moment to connect with others and enjoy something delicious together. Many Trinidadians have their favorite “doubles man” or “doubles woman” who they swear makes the best doubles. This loyalty adds a personal touch to the food experience.
Doubles also reflect Trinidad’s rich cultural diversity. The dish has roots in Indian cuisine but has evolved into something uniquely Trinidadian. Its widespread popularity bridges cultural boundaries, bringing people of all backgrounds together over a shared love for this iconic street food.
A Worldwide Favorite
In recent years, Trinidadian doubles have gained international attention. Trinidadians living abroad often introduce their friends to doubles, creating a demand for the dish in cities around the world. Restaurants serving Caribbean cuisine now include doubles on their menus, giving non-Trinidadians a chance to experience the magic of this humble yet extraordinary dish.
The Heart of Trinidad
Trinidadian doubles are more than just a snack—they’re a symbol of the island’s creativity, culture, and community spirit. Simple, affordable, and endlessly flavorful, doubles are a perfect example of how food can bring people together and tell the story of a place. Whether you’re in Trinidad or tasting doubles abroad, every bite is a reminder of the island’s vibrant street food culture and rich heritage.
So, the next time you find yourself in Trinidad, make sure you stop by a doubles stand and take part in this delicious tradition. Just don’t forget to bring your appetite—and maybe your love of spice!
