Doubles

Doubles is a cherished street food from Trinidad and Tobago, often enjoyed for breakfast but equally savored at lunch, as a late-night snack, or even as a hangover cure. This delectable treat features two pieces of fried dough called baras, stuffed with curried chickpeas (channa) and an assortment of chutneys.

The origins of doubles date back to 1936 in Fairfield, Princes Town, where Emamool Deen and his wife Raheman Rasulan Deen first created it. The dish is believed to be inspired by a northern Indian dish known as chole bhature, which pairs spicy chickpeas with fried bread. The name "doubles" emerged because customers frequently requested a double serving of the baras.

You can enjoy doubles in several different ways—spicy, sweet, or savory. The spicy version gets its kick from a hot pepper sauce, while other popular accompaniments include mango, chadon beni (a type of herb similar to cilantro), coconut, and tamarind.

Beyond just being a delicious snack, doubles holds a special place in Trinidadian culture. It’s more than just food; it’s a symbol of cultural identity, especially for Trinidadians living abroad. For immigrants, doubles is a comforting reminder of home and plays a crucial role in preserving their cultural heritage.