How To Make Ackee And SaltFish?

Ackee and Saltfish is the national dish of Jamaica, and it combines ackee, a unique fruit, with salted codfish. Here’s a simple recipe for making Ackee and Saltfish:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salted codfish
• 2 cans (or about 2 cups) ackee, drained and rinsed
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (ideally green or red), thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 2-3 scallions, chopped
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• Cooked rice, bread, or fried plantains, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salted Codfish:
   • Rinse the salted codfish under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, soak the codfish in water for several hours or overnight, changing the water a few times. This helps to rehydrate the fish and reduce its saltiness. Once soaked, shred or flake the codfish into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Codfish:
   • In a pot, boil the codfish in water for about 15-20 minutes or until it is fully cooked and tender. Drain the water and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onions, minced garlic, and bell pepper until they are softened.
4. Add Tomatoes and Thyme:
   • Add the chopped tomatoes and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes somewhat thick.
5. Add Codfish:
   • Add the boiled and shredded codfish to the skillet. Mix well with the sautéed vegetables.
6. Add Ackee:
   • Gently fold in the drained and rinsed ackee. Be careful not to over-stir to avoid breaking up the ackee.
7. Season and Simmer:
   • Season the mixture with black pepper and add the chopped Scotch bonnet peppers for heat. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add Scallions and Butter:
   • Add the chopped scallions and butter (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the Ackee and Saltfish and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve:
    • Serve the Ackee and Saltfish hot, accompanied by cooked rice, bread, or fried plantains.

Enjoy this flavorful and iconic Jamaican dish! Ackee and Saltfish is often served as a breakfast dish but can be enjoyed at any time of the day