Doubles Dilemma: 3 Health Benefits and 3 Drawbacks of Trinidad's Beloved Street Food

What is the best food in the world? Yes, you guess it right! Doubles!

Doubles, a celebrated street food originating from Trinidad and Tobago, holds a prominent place in the culinary traditions of the Caribbean. Comprising two fried flatbreads, known as bara, and filled with curried chickpeas or Channa, doubles offer a unique combination of flavors and textures that has captivated many. As with any popular food item, examining its health benefits and potential drawbacks is essential to make informed dietary choices.

Fun Fact!

The name "doubles" actually comes from the fact that the dish consists of two pieces of bara (the fried bread) filled with Channa (curried chickpeas). When the dish was first created, it was common to serve a single bara with the Channa. However, customers often requested a second bara to make the dish more filling, leading vendors to serve it as a pair—and thus, the name "doubles" was born!

Health Benefits 💖

1. Rich in Protein 🍗

   
   

   The chickpeas (Channa) in doubles are a great source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

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2. High in Fiber 🌾

   
   

   Chickpeas are also high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

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3. Nutrient-Dense 🍎

   
   

   Doubles contain various nutrients from the chickpeas and spices, including vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.

   
   

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Potential Health Risks 💔

1. High in Calories⬆️

   
   

   Due to the fried bara and the oil used in cooking, doubles can be high in calories, which might contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently.

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2. Sodium Content🧂

   
   

   The spices and condiments used in doubles can be high in sodium, which may not be suitable for individuals with high blood pressure or heart conditions.

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3. Digestive Issues🫃🏽

   
   

   The high fiber content, while beneficial for digestion, can cause digestive discomfort for some people, especially if consumed in large quantities.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, enjoying doubles in moderation and being mindful of these factors can help you reap the benefits while minimizing potential risks.

• "Street Food and Nutrition: An Analysis of Traditional Dishes and Their Health Implications." Journal of Caribbean Food Studies 12, no. 3 (2019): 45-58.

• Mohammed, Amira. "Culinary Traditions and Health in Trinidad and Tobago: The Case of Doubles." Caribbean Journal of Health Sciences 7, no. 1 (2020): 22-34.