Jamaican Saltfish Fritters

What is Saltfish?

Saltfish (also called bacalao, bacalhau, baccalà or dried fish), also known as salted cod, is a protein made from white fish that has been cured in salt and dried to preserve it. The process of salting fish increases the salt content and reduces moisture, which extends the shelf life and allows it to be stored without refrigeration. 

Saltfish is a staple in many Caribbean cuisines and is often eaten with rice, roti, bakes, or ground provisions. It's also a key ingredient in Jamaica's national dish, ackee and saltfish, which is traditionally served for breakfast. 

Saltfish has a rich history that's tied to the triangular trade between Europe, Africa, and the Americas: 

Origin

Saltfish originated in Northern Europe and Eastern Canada. 

Triangular trade

New England ships would carry saltfish and other products to the West Indies to buy slaves, then return to New England with sugar, salt, spices, and fibers. 

Jamaican cuisine

Saltfish became a cheap source of protein for slaves working on sugar plantations in the Caribbean. 

Vitamin D

Saltfish is rich in Vitamin D, which helps the body regulate calcium and phosphate levels.

INGREDIENTS

• 8.5 oz water
• 1 pack boneless Saltfish 
• Spring onions 
• 1 small Tomato chopped 
• 1 medium Onion 
• 1 cup sweet peppers
• 1/4-1/2 of a Scotch bonnet pepper 
• 1/2 tsp Baking powder 
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups plain flour 
• 1 tsp Black pepper 
• 1 tsp Paprika 
• 4oz Olive or vegetable oil

optional: Garlic, thyme and hot pepper sauce or anything similar 

DIRECTIONS

1. Place saltfish in water and let it boil for 10 mins (or soak saltfish in cold water overnight)
2. Then drain off the water and repeat 1 or 2 more times (removes salt)
3. Add Spring onions, chopped tomato, onion, sweet peppers, Scotch bonnet pepper, 1/2 tsp Baking powder  into mixing bowl
4. Pour 2 cups of water into bowl
5. Pour 4 cups plain flour then mix (add water or flour when necessary untill mix has slightly sloppy consistency
6. Add 1 tsp Black pepper 
7. Add 1 tsp Paprika 
8. Add 4oz Olive or vegetable oil in frying pan - on high heat 
9. Add mix to high heat frying pan, then turn down to medium heat. Fry until golden brown on each side.