Okra rice with saltfish is an easy and comforting dish.

This one-pot dish combines the earthy taste of okra with the salty richness of saltfish, creating a meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

It’s a staple in many Trini households, including mine, where my grandmother would prepare it with love, filling the kitchen with its enticing aroma.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, nutritious dish that embodies the essence of the Caribbean, okra rice with saltfish is a perfect choice!

What Can You Add to Okra Rice?

While okra and rice are the core ingredients, you can enhance the dish with additional proteins and vegetables:

Saltfish.
Pigtail.
Shrimp.
Tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers.

How to Make Caribbean Okra Rice with Saltfish?

Ingredients:

1 cup rice (washed and drained)
1/2 lb saltfish (soaked overnight, boiled, and flaked)
1 cup fresh okra, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small tomato, diced
1/2 bell pepper, chopped
1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups water or coconut milk

Instructions:

Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.

Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until fragrant.

Add diced tomato and cook until softened.

Stir in the flaked saltfish and season with thyme, black pepper, and all-purpose seasoning.

Add okra and mix well, allowing it to cook slightly.

Pour in the rice and stir to coat with the seasonings.

Add water or coconut milk, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

What to Eat with Okra Rice?

Okra rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of Caribbean favorites:

Stew Fish
BBQ Chicken
Fried Plantains
Cucumber Salad

FAQ

1. Can I make okra rice without saltfish?

Yes! You can substitute saltfish with shrimp, smoked meat, or even go fully vegetarian by adding more vegetables.

2. How do I prevent okra from becoming slimy?

Cooking okra over high heat and avoiding excessive stirring helps reduce slime. Adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes also minimizes slime production.

3. Can I use frozen okra?

Yes! Frozen okra works well, but fresh okra gives a firmer texture.

4. Is this dish spicy?

It’s typically mild, but you can add Scotch bonnet pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.

5. Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Caribbean okra rice with saltfish is a dish filled with flavor, history, and tradition.

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