Saint Vincent Ackee and Saltfish Fritters
These savory fritters combine the unique texture of ackee with the salty flavor of saltfish, bound together with a light batter and fried to a golden crisp. A popular snack or appetizer, they offer a taste of the islands' rich culinary heritage.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 can (about 10 oz) Ackee(drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 lb Saltfish(desalted, cooked, and flaked)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 cup Onion(finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Bell pepper(finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced (or to taste, optional))
- 1 clove Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme(chopped)
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 cup Milk(or as needed)
- for frying Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the saltfish: Soak the saltfish in water for at least 8 hours or overnight, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Cook the saltfish in fresh water until tender, then flake it and remove any bones.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the drained ackee, flaked saltfish, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using), minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. In another small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together.
- 4
Gradually add the flour mixture to the ackee and saltfish mixture, stirring until just combined. Add the egg and milk mixture and stir until a thick batter forms. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency, similar to pancake batter.
- 5
Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
- 6
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 7
Remove the fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the saltfish is thoroughly desalted to avoid overly salty fritters.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓Do not overcrowd the frying pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped fresh parsley or chives to the batter for extra flavor.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like a spicy aioli or a sweet chili sauce.