St. Kitts Breadfruit and Saltfish Bake
A savory baked dish combining the starchy goodness of breadfruit with the salty, flaky texture of saltfish, bound together with a creamy, spiced mixture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large Breadfruit(peeled, cored, and cut into chunks)
- 400 g Salted cod(soaked overnight and desalted)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1/2 medium Bell pepper(finely chopped (green or red))
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Thyme(fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely minced (optional))
- 1.5 cups Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Butter(melted)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg(grated)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs(for topping (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Boil the desalted cod in water for about 10-15 minutes until it flakes easily. Drain, remove bones and skin, and flake the fish. Set aside.
- 2
Boil the breadfruit chunks in salted water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain well and mash coarsely with a fork or potato masher. Do not over-mash into a paste.
- 3
In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) in a little oil or butter until softened.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine the mashed breadfruit, flaked salt cod, and sautéed vegetable mixture. Mix gently.
- 5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- 6
Pour the milk and egg mixture over the breadfruit and saltfish mixture. Stir until just combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, remembering the saltfish is already salty.
- 7
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired for a crispy topping.
- 8
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the breadfruit is cooked until tender but not mushy for the best texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your spice preference.
- ✓Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven before slicing.
🔄 Variations
- Add shredded cheese (like cheddar) to the mixture for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate other cooked vegetables like peas or corn.