Growing up in Jamaica, the aroma of saltfish simmering in the kitchen was a familiar and comforting scent. It's a dish that instantly brings back memories of home, family gatherings, and the vibrant flavors of my childhood. Saltfish, or salted cod, is an integral part of Jamaica's culinary heritage, famously paired with ackee to create the national dish, Ackee and Saltfish. However, its versatility extends far beyond this beloved combination.

In Jamaican households, saltfish is a breakfast staple, often served alongside boiled green bananas, dumplings, yams, or rice. This savory, flavor-packed dish is not just a meal but a tradition, passed down through generations and cherished by all who savor its unique taste. Today, I'm excited to share with you my version of this classic Jamaican Saltfish recipe—a dish that holds a special place in my heart and is perfect for meal prep. Join me as we explore the rich flavors and cherished traditions of this iconic Jamaican breakfast.

Reasons to Love Jamaican Salt-fish

1. Rich Cultural Heritage: Jamaican Saltfish is a dish steeped in history and tradition, offering a taste of Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage with every bite.

2. Versatile and Adaptable: While traditionally enjoyed with ackee, saltfish can be paired with a variety of sides like boiled green bananas, dumplings, yams, or rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

3. Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of salted cod with fresh vegetables and spices creates a savory, flavor-packed dish that's both satisfying and delicious.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping and ensuring you have a hearty, nutritious meal ready to go.

5. Healthy and Nutritious: Saltfish is high in protein and, when paired with vegetables and healthy sides, provides a well-balanced and nutritious meal.

6. Quick and Easy: Despite its rich flavors, Jamaican Saltfish is relatively simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy mornings or quick dinners.

7. A Taste of Home: For many, this dish is a nostalgic reminder of family, home, and the comforting flavors of childhood.

8. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a brunch, Jamaican Saltfish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How to Prep Salt-fish

1. Rinse the Saltfish:

   • Remove the saltfish from its packaging and give it a quick rinse under cold running water to remove any surface salt.

2. Soak the Saltfish:

   • Place the saltfish in a large bowl and cover it with cold water. Allow it to soak for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight if possible. This will help to further remove the excess salt. Change the water a couple of times during the soaking process to speed up the desalting.

3. Boil the Saltfish:

   • Drain the soaking water from the saltfish and transfer it to a large pot. Cover the saltfish with fresh cold water.

   • Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

   • Drain the boiling water and refill the pot with fresh cold water. Bring it to a boil again and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. This double boiling process ensures that most of the salt is removed.

4. Cool and Flake the Saltfish:

   • After the second boil, drain the saltfish and allow it to cool.

   • Once cooled, remove any skin and bones if any from the fish. Use your fingers or a fork to flake the fish into small bite-sized pieces.

5. Final Rinse (Optional):

   • If you find that the saltfish is still too salty for your taste, you can give it one final rinse under cold water and let it drain well before using it in your recipe.

   Tips:

• Taste Test: After the second boil, taste a small piece of the fish. If it is still too salty, you may need to boil it a third time or give it an additional soak.

• Storage: Once prepped, you can store the flaked saltfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Perfect Pairings for Jamaican Salt-fish

Jamaican Saltfish is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of traditional sides. Here are some popular options to complete your meal:

1. Fried Dumplings:

   These are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a delightful contrast to the savory saltfish.

2. Boiled Dumplings:

   Soft and chewy, boiled dumplings are a comforting addition to any saltfish meal. Similar to fried dumplings, but instead of frying, boil the dough balls until they float to the top.

3. Boiled Green Bananas:

   Slightly sweet and starchy, boiled green bananas add a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Peel green bananas and boil them in salted water until tender.

4. Yam:

   A staple in Jamaican cuisine, yams are hearty and pair perfectly with the rich flavors of saltfish. Peel and boil yams until soft and tender.

5. Boiled Yellow Yam:

   A Jamaican favorite, yellow yams are slightly sweet and buttery when cooked. Peel the yam and boil it in salted water until it’s soft but not mushy.

6. Festival:

   Slightly sweet and fried, festival is similar to fried dumplings but with a touch of sugar and cornmeal. Mix flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and water to form a dough, then fry until golden brown.

Oh! Let’s not forget some fried plantains. Jamaicans know this goes with just about everything. These are sweet and crispy on the outside with a soft, caramelized center.

Now, if you’ve made it this far, it’s time to dive into the full recipe. Let’s cook!