Creamy Tobago Dasheen Punch

This Creamy Tobago Dasheen Punch is a rich, comforting Caribbean drink made from boiled dasheen blended with sweetened milk and island spices. It’s velvety, satisfying, and proudly Tobagonian. This drink is proof that even a humble root can become something sweet and special.

Have you ever turned a root into a drink? Well, welcome to the Caribbean, where we’ll make a punch out of just about anything that stands still long enough. This Dasheen Punch is creamy, earthy, and full of that deliciousness only island food can give. It’s the kind of drink that surprises people; they don’t expect a root vegetable to taste this good.

I grew up seeing dasheen mashed or stewed, but never imagined it as a drink until someone handed me a glass years ago at a family lime. One sip in and I was hooked. Think of it like a tropical milkshake. It’s rich, smooth, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for more.

What is dasheen punch?

Dasheen punch is a traditional Caribbean drink made by blending boiled dasheen with milk (usually condensed or evaporated) until it’s smooth, creamy, and velvety. It’s sometimes spiced up with a dash of nutmeg, vanilla, or even a splash of rum, depending on who’s pouring.

In the U.S., you’ll sometimes see dasheen labeled as taro, but it’s the same thing, just going by its “foreign name.” So basically, we are making a taro smoothie.

In Tobago, we’re lucky to usually have blue dasheen at our disposal, the kind that turns creamy and slightly sweet when cooked. It’s the same dasheen that shows up every year at our famous Blue Food Festival, where locals show off just how many ways we can turn this root into magic. It goes from cakes (like my dasheen black cake) to ice cream, and yes, even punch and wines.

This punch recipe is simple, old-school, and straight to the point: boil, blend, and sip. You’ll end up with a glass of Caribbean comfort that’s thick and luscious, just how we like it.

How to make dasheen punch

Ingredients

The Base

• Dasheen – peeled, chopped, and boiled until tender.
• Water – enough to cover the dasheen while boiling.

For Creaminess & Sweetness

• Condensed milk – adds that sweet, silky richness.
• (Optional) Evaporated milk or coconut milk – for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Flavor Boosters (Optional but worth it)

• Grated nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Bitters
• Rum or brandy (optional, but very Caribbean)

Dasheen punch process

1. Boil the dasheen: Add chopped dasheen to a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. Blend it up: Combine boiled dasheen, condensed milk, and a little water or milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Add flavor: Stir in nutmeg, vanilla, bitters, and rum (if using). Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
4. Chill and serve: Pour into a jug or bottle and refrigerate for at least an hour. Serve cold over ice, sprinkled with a dash of nutmeg on top.

Tips for the best dasheen punch

• Use soft, starchy dasheen for a smoother blend.
• Cool before blending so it doesn’t get too gummy.
• Adjust the thickness to your liking.
• Make it dairy-free with coconut milk and a natural sweetener.
• Add a little spirit for a festive touch.

Storage

Refrigerate in a sealed jug for up to 3 days. Shake before serving. It thickens as it chills.

Serving suggestions

Perfect with:

• Coconut drops or sweet bread
• Bake and saltfish buljol for a sweet-salty pairing
• Or just sip solo, because this punch is the moment

FAQs

More Caribbean punch favourites

• Guinness Punch
• Pumpkin Punch
• Carrot Punch
• Paw Paw punch

Wrapping It Up

Who knew a humble root could make such a creamy, crave-worthy drink? Dasheen Punch is the definition of Caribbean creativity; simple ingredients and big flavor.

Here in Tobago, where blue dasheen is never too far from the table, this punch is extra special. That creamy, slightly sweet root makes for a drink that’s rich, comforting, and distinctly ours — a little taste of island pride in every glass.

Whether you serve it chilled at Sunday lunch, pour it up for guests at Christmas, or sneak a little rum in when nobody’s watching, this punch always brings that island comfort. If you’ve never tried it before, this is your sign. Blend it, chill it, and enjoy a glass of Blue Food magic.

Recipe