Steamed Flying Fish

Barbadian Steamed Flying Fish Recipe with Lime, Onion, and Hot Pepper Sauce

Region / culture: Barbados | Servings: 4

Introduction

Steamed Flying Fish is a traditional dish from Barbados that showcases the delicate and flavorful flying fish. This dish is packed with Caribbean spices and flavors that will transport you to the sunny beaches of the island.

History

Flying fish is a staple in Barbadian cuisine and has been enjoyed for generations. Steaming the fish allows it to retain its natural flavors and nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious meal option.

Ingredients

8 flying fish fillets
3 limes
1 tbsp salt
3 tbsp Barbadian seasoning
1 large onion, sliced
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, cut in julienne strips
1 oz (28 g) fresh thyme
1 oz (28 g) fresh marjoram
1 tsp parsley, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
1 tsp lime juice
2 cups water
2 tsp hot pepper sauce
2 tsp curry powder
3 tbsp margarine
seasoned salt, to taste

How to prepare

Rub the fish with the juice of the limes and the salt and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Rinse the fish and pat dry with paper towels, then rub in the Barbadian seasoning.
Roll each fish up (like a sausage) and secure with a toothpick.
Heat the margarine in a saucepan and sauté the onion and garlic for 3 minutes, or until the onions become transparent.
Add the tomato and parsley and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
Tie the thyme and marjoram together and add them to the pan along with the remaining ingredients - except the.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.

Variations

For a spicier version, add more hot pepper sauce or chopped scotch bonnet peppers.
Substitute the flying fish with another type of white fish, such as snapper or tilapia.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly season the fish with lime juice, salt, and Barbadian seasoning to enhance the flavors.

- Rolling the fish fillets and securing them with toothpicks helps them retain their shape during cooking.

- Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients helps to build a flavorful base for the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Flying Fish is traditionally served with steamed rice and a side of fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed with roasted vegetables or fried plantains.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the fish helps to retain its natural flavors and nutrients, making it a healthy cooking method.

Ingredient Substitutions

If flying fish is not available, you can use another type of white fish fillet for this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the fish fillets and seasonings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Steamed Flying Fish on a bed of steamed rice and garnish with fresh herbs and a wedge of lime for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Steamed Flying Fish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a tropical fruit punch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Steamed Flying Fish contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Steamed Flying Fish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Steamed Flying Fish contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Steamed Flying Fish contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Steamed Flying Fish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for individuals with fish allergies.

Summary

Steamed Flying Fish is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in proteins and vitamins. It is a healthy meal option that is perfect for seafood lovers.

Summary

Steamed Flying Fish is a delicious and nutritious dish that highlights the flavors of the Caribbean. With its tender fish fillets and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a beautifully detailed handwritten note passed down to me from my great-grandmother, who had learned it from a fisherman she met on a trip to the Caribbean many years ago. The recipe was for steamed flying fish, a dish that sounded both exotic and delicious.

I had always been fascinated by different cuisines and cooking techniques, and this recipe was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The instructions were simple yet specific, calling for fresh flying fish, coconut milk, spices, and vegetables. I could almost taste the flavors just by reading the words on the page.

I knew that I had to try making this dish myself, to honor my great-grandmother's memory and to continue the tradition of passing down recipes through the generations. So, I set out to gather all the ingredients and prepare myself for the culinary adventure ahead.

I went to the local fish market early in the morning to find the freshest flying fish available. The fishmonger was surprised to see me asking for such a rare and specific fish, but he was happy to help me find exactly what I needed. As I held the iridescent silver fish in my hands, I felt a connection to my great-grandmother and her travels to distant lands.

Next, I picked up some fresh coconut milk from a nearby market and gathered the rest of the ingredients – a medley of colorful vegetables, fragrant spices, and herbs. The kitchen was filled with the scents of ginger, garlic, and cilantro as I prepared the marinade for the flying fish.

I followed the instructions on the recipe carefully, marinating the fish in a mixture of coconut milk, lime juice, and spices for several hours. The fish seemed to come alive in the fragrant marinade, absorbing all the flavors and aromas of the Caribbean.

When it was time to cook the fish, I steamed it gently in a bamboo steamer, allowing the delicate flavors to meld together and the fish to become tender and succulent. The kitchen was filled with the aroma of coconut and spices, transporting me to a tropical paradise with each breath I took.

As I plated the steamed flying fish, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the dish. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky and moist, with a subtle hint of spice and sweetness from the coconut milk. The vibrant colors of the vegetables added a touch of freshness and crunch, complementing the richness of the fish.

I took a bite of the steamed flying fish and closed my eyes, savoring the flavors on my tongue. It was a truly magical moment, a connection to my great-grandmother and her adventures, a taste of the world beyond my own kitchen.

From that day on, steamed flying fish became a regular dish in my repertoire, a reminder of the power of tradition and the joy of exploring new culinary horizons. Each time I make it, I feel a sense of wonder and gratitude for the recipes and stories that have been passed down to me – a legacy of flavors and memories that will live on through the generations to come.