Green Fig (banana) and Saltfish

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Green Fig (banana) and Saltfish

Traditional Grenadian Foods | Classics
Grenada
Green Fig (banana) and Saltfish

Ingredients:

For the Green Fig:

  • 6-8 green figs (green bananas)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Water for boiling

For the Saltfish:

  • 1 lb saltfish (salted cod)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (optional, for heat), finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime (optional, for soaking the fish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Saltfish:

  1. Desalting the Saltfish:
    • Rinse the saltfish under cold running water to remove excess salt.
    • Soak the saltfish in cold water for a few hours or overnight, changing the water a couple of times to remove most of the salt.
    • Alternatively, you can boil the saltfish for 10-15 minutes, then drain and rinse to speed up the process.
    • Once desalted, flake the fish into small pieces, removing any bones and skin. Set aside.

Prepare the Green Fig:

  1. Boil the Green Figs:
    • Cut off the ends of the green figs (bananas) and make a shallow slit along the length of each banana to help with peeling later.
    • In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the salt.
    • Add the green figs to the boiling water and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.
    • Drain the green figs and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and slice the bananas into rounds or leave them whole. Set aside.

Cook the Saltfish:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables:

    • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
    • Add the chopped tomatoes and thyme, and continue to cook until the tomatoes break down and create a sauce.

  2. Add the Saltfish:

    • Add the flaked saltfish to the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetables and sauce.
    • Season with black pepper and paprika (if using). Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Combine the Green Fig and Saltfish:

    • Gently fold the cooked green fig slices into the saltfish mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.

  2. Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot, with a side of avocado, fried plantains, or a simple salad.

Enjoy your flavorful and traditional Green Fig and Salt Fish! This dish is a perfect example of Caribbean comfort food, bringing together the unique flavors of the islands.