Pick Up Salt Fish

Pick Up Salt Fish Recipe from Jamaica | Ingredients: saltfish, onion, tomato, Scotch bonnet pepper, ketchup

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pick Up Salt Fish is a traditional Caribbean dish that is packed with flavor and is a favorite among many. This dish is made with saltfish, onions, tomatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper, and ketchup, creating a delicious and savory meal that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Pick Up Salt Fish has its roots in Caribbean cuisine, where salted fish was a staple ingredient due to its long shelf life and ability to withstand tropical climates. This dish has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved recipe in many Caribbean households.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) saltfish
0.5 onion
0.25 tomato
1 scotch bonnet pepper
2 tbsp ketchup

How to prepare

Soak or boil the saltfish to remove most of the salt, then drain.
Cut the onions, tomato, and Scotch bonnet (optional) into small pieces and sauté them in a saucepan with a small amount of oil.
Remove the sautéed mixture from the saucepan and place it in a dish.
"Pick up" (break into small portions and remove any bones) the saltfish and fry it in the same saucepan with a light amount of oil.
Add the seasonings (onions, tomato, Scotch bonnet pepper) along with ketchup and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Variations

Add bell peppers or okra for added flavor and texture.
Substitute the ketchup with a homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak or boil the saltfish before cooking to remove excess salt.

- Sautéing the onions, tomatoes, and Scotch bonnet pepper before adding the saltfish helps to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- "Picking up" the saltfish involves breaking it into small pieces and removing any bones to ensure a smooth and enjoyable eating experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pick Up Salt Fish is traditionally served with rice, fried plantains, or dumplings for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Soaking or boiling the saltfish before cooking helps to remove excess salt and soften the fish.

- Sautéing the vegetables before adding the saltfish helps to build layers of flavor in the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If saltfish is not available, you can use fresh fish and add salt to taste.

- Substitute Scotch bonnet pepper with jalapeño or habanero pepper for a milder heat level.

Make Ahead Tips

Pick Up Salt Fish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pick Up Salt Fish with a refreshing fruit salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 8g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains fish

Summary

Pick Up Salt Fish is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to note that it is high in sodium due to the saltfish.

Summary

Pick Up Salt Fish is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich history and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Caribbean dish with your family and friends for a taste of the islands.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Pick Up Salt Fish. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her charming little cottage by the sea. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and reminiscing about the good old days when she suddenly reached into a dusty old recipe box and pulled out a tattered piece of paper.

"Ah, here it is," she said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "The secret to making the most delicious Pick Up Salt Fish you'll ever taste."

I leaned in closer, eager to learn the secret behind this mysterious dish. Martha had always been a fantastic cook, and I knew that whatever she had in store for me would be nothing short of amazing.

She began to tell me the story behind the recipe, her voice soft and filled with nostalgia. She explained how she had learned to make Pick Up Salt Fish from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations of their family. The dish was a beloved tradition in their household, reserved for special occasions and family gatherings.

As Martha spoke, I could practically taste the salty, savory flavors of the dish dancing on my tongue. I could imagine the tender flakes of fish, the tangy vinegar, and the aromatic herbs all coming together in perfect harmony. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Martha graciously agreed to teach me the recipe, and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, stirring, and simmering our way to culinary perfection. She showed me how to properly prep the salt fish, soaking it in water to remove the excess salt and then flaking it into bite-sized pieces. She taught me how to sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they were soft and fragrant, adding a touch of heat with some fiery scotch bonnet peppers.

Next came the star ingredient – the pickling liquid. Martha poured a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices into the pan, letting it bubble and reduce until it formed a thick, tangy sauce. She added the fish to the pan, allowing it to soak up all the flavors and become tender and succulent.

As the dish cooked, the kitchen filled with the mouth-watering aroma of herbs and spices. I could feel my stomach growling in anticipation, eager to taste the finished product.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of waiting, Martha dished up a generous portion of Pick Up Salt Fish onto a plate and handed me a fork. I took a hesitant bite, unsure of what to expect.

But as soon as the flavors hit my taste buds, I was transported to a world of culinary bliss. The fish was tender and flaky, the sauce tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of heat from the peppers. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, a dish that spoke of tradition and love.

I couldn't believe that I had never tried Pick Up Salt Fish before. It was a revelation, a dish that I knew would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come. And it was all thanks to Martha and her treasured family recipe.

As I finished the last bite of fish, I looked up at Martha with gratitude in my eyes. "Thank you," I said, my heart full of warmth. "Thank you for sharing this recipe with me, for passing down this tradition from your grandmother to me. I will cherish it always."

Martha smiled, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You're welcome, my dear," she replied. "I'm so glad you enjoyed it. And now, you can carry on the tradition in your own family, just like I did. That's the beauty of recipes – they bring us together, they nourish our bodies and our souls, and they create memories that last a lifetime."

And with that, I knew that Pick Up Salt Fish would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a dish – it was a connection to my past, a link to my heritage, and a reminder of the power of food to bring us closer together. And for that, I would be forever grateful.