saltfish

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Saltfish is a traditional dish popular in the Caribbean, West Africa, and regions of North America. It is primarily made from white fish that has been salt-cured and dried until all the moisture is drawn out. The fish is then rehydrated and cooked with various ingredients such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes. In some regions, saltfish is often served with ackee, breadfruit, or rice.

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb salted cod

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 1 large bell pepper, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tomatoes, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme

  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded and chopped (optional)

  • 2 green onions, chopped

  • Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions:

  1. Soak the salted cod in cold water for at least 24 hours, changing the water 2-3 times to remove most of the salt.

  2. After soaking, boil the cod in a pot of water for about 20 minutes until it becomes tender.

  3. Drain the water and allow the cod to cool, then flake the fish with a fork, removing any bones.

  4. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

  5. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and sauté until they are softened.

  6. Add the chopped tomatoes, black pepper, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes.

  7. Add the flaked cod to the skillet, stirring it into the vegetable mixture.

  8. Cook the mixture for another 10-15 minutes, until all the ingredients are well combined and heated through.

  9. Add the chopped green onions to the skillet and stir to combine.

  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.