Antiguan Breadfruit Oil Down
A hearty and flavorful one-pot stew featuring breadfruit, salted meat or fish, and a medley of vegetables simmered in coconut milk and spices. It's a comforting and representative dish of the islands.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Breadfruit(peeled, cored, and cut into chunks)
- 1 lb Salted beef or pigtail(soaked and cut into pieces (optional, can use fresh chicken or fish))
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk
- 1 cup Water
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(sliced)
- 1 cup Okra(trimmed)
- 2 sprigs Thyme
- 2 stalks Scallions(chopped)
- 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, for flavor)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using salted meat/pigtail, ensure it has been properly soaked overnight to remove excess salt. If using fresh chicken or fish, prepare them as needed.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the breadfruit chunks and the salted meat/pigtail (if using) to the pot. Stir to coat with the aromatics. If using fresh chicken or fish, add it now.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Add the sliced carrots, okra, thyme sprigs, scallions, and the whole scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- 5
Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the breadfruit is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If using salted meat, taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the whole scotch bonnet pepper before serving if you don't want it too spicy.
- 6
Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has a good portion of breadfruit, meat/fish, and vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking salted meat is crucial to control the saltiness of the dish.
- ✓Breadfruit can be substituted with green bananas or yams if unavailable.
- ✓The scotch bonnet pepper adds aroma and a gentle heat; pierce it slightly if you want more spice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use different types of salted fish, such as cod or kingfish.
- Add other root vegetables like dasheen or sweet potato.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated coconut milk.