St. Kitts Ackee and Saltfish
A beloved national dish of Saint Kitts and Nevis, this flavorful combination features the unique ackee fruit sautéed with rehydrated saltfish, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, often served for breakfast or brunch.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Saltfish (dried salted cod)(soaked overnight and boiled until tender, then flaked)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Ackee(drained, rinsed gently)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 1 medium Bell pepper (any color)(chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat (optional))
- 1 tsp Thyme(fresh, chopped, or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- to taste Salt(use sparingly as saltfish is already salty)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the saltfish: Soak the saltfish in cold water overnight, changing the water several times. Drain, cover with fresh water, and boil for about 20-30 minutes, or until tender. Drain, let cool slightly, then flake into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones or skin.
- 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the chopped bell pepper, tomato, minced garlic, and chopped Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
- 4
Add the flaked saltfish and chopped thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 5
Gently fold in the drained and rinsed ackee. Be careful not to break up the ackee too much. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring very gently, until the ackee is heated through. Season with black pepper and a little salt if needed.
- 6
Serve hot, typically with boiled green bananas, fried dumplings, or rice and peas.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Handle ackee gently to maintain its shape.
- ✓Taste the saltfish before adding extra salt to the dish, as it can be quite salty.
- ✓Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of white vinegar to the boiling saltfish to help remove excess salt.
- Some variations include a bit of chopped scallion or pimento (allspice) for added flavor.