There’s nothing quite like waking up to a warm plate of Ackee and Saltfish — Jamaica’s beloved national dish. Creamy ackee, savory saltfish, and vibrant island seasonings come together to create the ultimate comfort meal . Whether you pair it with fried dumplings, boiled green banana, or roast breadfruit, this dish will bring you straight back to those Sunday-morning kitchen memories.
Ingredients
½ lb salted codfish (salted pollock or saltfish)
1 can (19 oz) ackee (drained) or 2 cups fresh ackee (if available)
2 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil 4-6 pimento berries
1 small onion, sliced
2 stalks scallion, chopped
1 medium tomato, diced
½ green bell pepper, sliced
½ red bell pepper, sliced
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional)
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Black pepper, to taste
Pinch of all-purpose seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Saltfish:
Soak the saltfish overnight or boil for 10–15 minutes to remove excess salt. Drain, flake, and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add pimento berries, onion, scallion, tomato, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet, and thyme. Sauté 3–5 minutes until fragrant. - Add the Saltfish:
Stir in the flaked saltfish and cook for another 3–4 minutes to combine the flavors. - Fold in the Ackee:
Gently fold in the ackee. Season with black pepper and all-purpose seasoning if desired.
Cook on low heat for 3–5 minutes, being careful not to mash the ackee. - Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and serve warm with your favorite sides — boiled green banana, fried dumpling, or roasted breadfruit.
- Don’t stir too much once you add the ackee — it should stay soft and chunky.
Suggested Sides
- Fried plantain 🍌
- Boiled yam & dumpling 🍠
- Roast breadfruit 🍞
Thanks for stopping by my kitchen! ❤️ If you try this Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish recipe, snap a photo and tag @khaliaskuisine on Instagram or Facebook — I love seeing your creations! Don’t forget to follow Khalia’s Kuisine for more island-style recipes and Sunday dinner inspiration. 🇯🇲