Following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is reopening and all international and domestic airports are operational. To find information on hotel reopenings and to learn how you can lend your support, visit the Jamaica Tourist Board’s TRAVEL ALERTS page.
Ackee and saltfish, Jamaica’s national dish, needs no introduction. It’s one of the most popular Jamaican foods worldwide, ranked by National Geographic as the 2nd best national dish in the world. It’s certainly a must-try on any visit to Jamaica. The dish’s status as a global icon means it has been added and adapted to restaurant menus all over the world. But if you’re seeking that authentic, on-island taste. You’ve got to make it Jamaica.
How to make Ackee and Saltfish
A recipe from the chefs at Hyatt Resorts
Ingredients
- 1lb saltfish
- 2 dozen fresh ackees or 1 can
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 small to medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional, but we strongly recommend)
Once the fruit is picked and cleaned, it’s time to boil the ackee and prepare the saltfish. Some cooks soak the saltfish in water overnight to remove excess salt, others boil the fish briefly before removing the bones.
Saute the herbs and aromatics including onions, garlic, thyme, tomatoes, and of course, scotch bonnet pepper.
Add the drained ackee and prepared saltfish, mix together and finish with a sprinkle of black pepper or paprika. The finished dish may be served with fried dumplings, callaloo (similar to spinach or amaranth), breadfruit, bammy (fried cassava cakes), and plantain.
So – what does ackee taste like?
Some have compared the texture to that of buttery scrambled eggs. Combined with saltfish and a variety of aromatics, it’s a delicious balance of savoury, spicy, and mild flavours – the perfect start to a day of exploring waterfalls, uncovering hidden treasures, or just soaking up the Jamaican sun.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before travelling.
