Why Make This Recipe
Jamaican Salt Mackerel offers a delicious taste of traditional Caribbean cuisine. This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to new flavors, and it’s packed with protein. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can feed a family!
How to Make Jamaican Salt Mackerel
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salt mackerel
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 sprigs of thyme
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or boiled dumplings
- Fried plantains
- Avocado slices
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Start by soaking the salt mackerel in water overnight to remove excess salt. The next day, rinse the mackerel thoroughly and shred it into small pieces.
- Chop the onion, tomatoes, garlic, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper. Prepare the remaining ingredients and set them aside for cooking.
- Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until they turn translucent. Add the garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes, bell pepper, scotch bonnet pepper, and thyme to the skillet. Stir well and let the vegetables cook until they soften.
- Now, add the shredded salt mackerel to the pan and mix it with the vegetables. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve the Jamaican Salt Mackerel hot over rice or dumplings. Garnish with fried plantains, avocado slices, and fresh parsley.
How to Serve Jamaican Salt Mackerel
You can serve Jamaican Salt Mackerel over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside boiled dumplings. Adding fried plantains, avocado slices, and fresh parsley will make your plate colorful and appetizing. This meal is perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to satisfy!
How to Store Jamaican Salt Mackerel
Store any leftover Jamaican Salt Mackerel in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving again. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to a month.
Tips to Make Jamaican Salt Mackerel
- If you like spice, leave the seeds in the scotch bonnet pepper or add a bit more to taste.
- Use fresh thyme for a better flavor.
- Be careful with salt; the mackerel is already salty, so adjust seasoning after cooking.
Variation
You can try adding different vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition. Some people also like to add a splash of lime juice for a tangy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh mackerel instead of salt mackerel?
Yes, you can use fresh mackerel, but you may need to add salt to season.
2. Is Jamaican Salt Mackerel spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount of scotch bonnet pepper you use. You can skip it if you prefer a milder dish.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it a day ahead. Just reheat before serving!