Ackee & Saltfish (Jamaica’s National Dish 🇯🇲

saltfish

🥗Healthier: fresh fish

💰Cheaper: canned fish

Fresh fish can be lower in sodium and more affordable than traditional saltfish.

ackee

🥗Healthier: butternut squash

💰Cheaper: pumpkin

These alternatives mimic the texture but are more widely available.

Remove the black seeds from the ackee, leaving the bright yellow flesh.

Boil the ackee until tender.

Boil the salted fish (codfish) with the bone in for flavor, then mince it.

Prep the seasonings: chop tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and fresh thyme, and have scotch bonnet peppers ready.

Add a small amount of cooking oil to a pot (coconut oil can be used).

Sauté the chopped seasonings for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the minced salted fish to the sautéed seasonings and cook for 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.

Season with black pepper after adding the salted fish.

Gently fold in the boiled ackee, being careful not to mix too much as it is fragile.

Cook for an additional 3 minutes, then serve.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary