Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish Recipe
This Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish recipe is pure joy on a plate! Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—any time of day. 🌞🌜
INGREDIENTS
- 1 can of ackee, drained (540 grams)
- 1Â pound salted cod (saltfish), soaked and flaked
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or coconut oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded and sliced (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, cut into thin strips (or use half of two different peppers for color)
- 1 sprig thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 scallion, chopped (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Saltfish:
- Fill a medium-sized pot with water and bring it to a boil on medium heat.
- Rinse the saltfish thoroughly under cold running water until any surface salt is washed away.
- Cut it into smaller pieces (about 2 to 3 inches), and add it to the boiling water.
- Boil for about 10-15 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Taste a small piece of the fish to check the saltiness. If to your liking, flake the fish into bite-sized pieces, discard any bones, and set aside. If it’s still too salty, repeat the boiling process.
Prepare the Ackee:
- Remove the ackee from the can and drain off the liquid using a strainer.
- Rinse the ackee with cool water, drain again, and set aside. Take care not to break the ackee pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Finely chop the onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and scallions (if using).
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper, bell peppers, and thyme.
- Sauté until the vegetables are soft and well-combined for about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Cook:
- Add the flaked saltfish to the pot and let it cook for another 3 minutes.
- Gently fold in the ackee, being careful not to stir too vigorously to keep the ackee intact.
- Season with black pepper and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until everything is evenly heated through.
Serve:
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Ackee and Saltfish!