How To Make Ackee With Saltfish?

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Ackee and saltfish is Jamaica’s national dish, loved for its rich flavors and unique ingredients.

The aroma of sautéed onions, peppers, and salted cod would fill the kitchen, making my mouth water before I even saw the dish.

The soft, buttery texture of ackee combined with the savory saltfish, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, was always a comforting meal.

Today, I’m excited to share this delicious recipe with you, so you can enjoy the same authentic flavors at home.

What Is Ackee?

Ackee is a tropical fruit that comes from the ackee tree (Blighia sapida), which is native to West Africa but widely grown in Jamaica and other Caribbean countries.

Is Ackee Safe to Eat?

Yes, but it must be fully ripe before consumption. Unripe ackee contains toxins that can be harmful.

In Jamaica, fresh ackee is picked when the fruit naturally opens, revealing its edible yellow arils. Outside of Jamaica, most people use canned ackee, which is pre-cooked and safe to eat.

Though it is a fruit, ackee is typically eaten as a vegetable. When cooked, its creamy, yellow flesh has a soft, buttery texture and a mild, slightly nutty taste.

How to Make Ackee and Saltfish

Ingredients:

• 1 can of ackee (or 2 cups fresh, properly prepared ackee)
• 8 ounces (about ½ pound) salted codfish (saltfish)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, sliced
• ½ red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scallions (green onions), chopped
• 1 sprig thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for spice)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Saltfish

Saltfish (salted cod) needs to be desalted before cooking. Here’s how:

1. Rinse the saltfish under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. Boil the saltfish in a pot of water for about 15–20 minutes.
3. Drain and repeat the boiling process if the fish is still too salty.
4. Once cooled, flake the fish into small pieces, removing any bones and skin.

Sauté the Seasonings

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and thyme, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the bell peppers, tomatoes, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.

Add the Saltfish

1. Add the prepared saltfish to the skillet and stir well.
2. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Add the Ackee

1. Gently add the ackee to the pan, being careful not to stir too much (as ackee is delicate and can break apart).
2. Sprinkle black pepper to taste.
3. Allow the dish to simmer on low heat for another 3–5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy!

Ackee and saltfish are best served hot with your favorite Caribbean sides.

What to Eat with Ackee and Saltfish

1. Fried Dumplings

These crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside dumplings (also called “Johnny Cakes”) are perfect for scooping up the ackee and saltfish.

2. Boiled Green Bananas

Boiled green bananas have a mild, starchy flavor that complements the rich ackee and saltfish mixture.

3. Festival

Jamaican festival is a slightly sweet, fried dough made with cornmeal. It adds a wonderful contrast to the savory dish.

4. Rice and Peas

A classic side dish made with kidney beans (or gungo peas), coconut milk, and rice. This is a filling and flavorful option.

5. Fried Plantains

Sweet, caramelized fried plantains add a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the fish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does ackee taste like?

Ackee has a creamy, buttery texture with a mild, nutty flavor. It absorbs the flavors of the ingredients it’s cooked with, making it a perfect match for saltfish.

2. Can I use fresh ackee instead of canned?

Yes, but fresh ackee must be properly prepared. Only use ackee that has naturally opened on the tree, and boil it for at least 10 minutes before cooking. Canned ackee is more convenient and safer to use.

3. Is ackee and saltfish healthy?

Yes! Ackee is rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin C. Saltfish is high in protein but can be high in sodium, so desalting it properly is important. The dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made with minimal oil for a healthier version.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

5. Can I make ackee and saltfish vegan?

Making ackee and saltfish at home is a great way to experience authentic Jamaican flavors.

Read More Caribbean Recipes

• Trinidad Bake and Saltfish Buljol
• A Quick Caribbean Stew Saltfish Recipe
• An Easy Trinidadian Saltfish Accra Recipe