Jamaican Rundown Fish
A rich and creamy Jamaican fish stew made with coconut milk, callaloo, and seasoned with Scotch bonnet pepper and other spices. It's a flavorful dish often served with rice or boiled ground provisions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lb White Fish Fillets(such as snapper, kingfish, or dolphin (mahi-mahi), cut into chunks)
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) Coconut Milk(full-fat)
- 1 bunch Callaloo(chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper(chopped (any color))
- 1 whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper(pierced, or to taste)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 sprigs Thyme
- 3 Allspice Berries(optional)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- Salt and Black Pepper(to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish chunks with salt and pepper. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure fish is well-seasoned. - 2
In a large skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, thyme sprigs, and allspice berries (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Pour in the coconut milk and add the pierced Scotch bonnet pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
💡 Tip: Do not boil vigorously. - 5
Add the chopped callaloo to the simmering coconut milk mixture. Stir and let it wilt, about 3-5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Gently place the seasoned fish chunks into the coconut milk mixture. Ensure they are mostly submerged.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot. - 7
Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Avoid stirring too much to keep the fish intact.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: The sauce should thicken slightly. - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.
💡 Tip: The pepper has infused its flavor; remove it to control the heat level.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
- ✓Be cautious with the Scotch bonnet pepper; start with a small piece and add more if desired.
- ✓The dish is best served fresh.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like chopped tomatoes or okra.
- For a spicier kick, finely chop a portion of the Scotch bonnet and add it to the sauce.
- Serve with boiled green bananas, yam, or rice.