Bahamian Boiled Fish
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish, Bahamian Boiled Fish features tender, flaky white fish simmered with potatoes, onions, and aromatic spices in a savory broth. It's a traditional breakfast, lunch, or dinner staple, often served with grits or johnnycake.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs White fish fillets (e.g., grouper, snapper, mahi-mahi)(cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 3 large Limes(juiced)
- 2 medium Yellow onions(sliced)
- 1 lb Potatoes(peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 6 sprigs Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 tsp Whole cloves
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 4 cups Water or fish broth
- 0.25 medium Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced or whole, to taste (optional))
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish chunks with salt, pepper, and the juice of 1 lime. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, thyme sprigs, whole cloves, and minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- 3
Add the cubed potatoes and water (or broth) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender.
- 4
Add the marinated fish to the pot. Ensure the fish is mostly submerged in the liquid. Add the remaining lime juice. Bring back to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- 5
Remove the thyme sprigs and whole cloves if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, traditionally with grits or johnnycake.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer broth, use fish broth instead of water.
- ✓If you don't have scotch bonnet peppers, a habanero or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used for heat.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish; it should be tender and flaky.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like chopped celery or sliced plantains.
- Some recipes include a small piece of bacon or salt pork for added flavor.