Bahamian Cracked Conch with Island Spices

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) conch meat, tenderized and sliced into thin pieces 1 pound (450g) conch meat, tenderized and sliced into thin pieces
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving
• Spicy dipping sauce, for serving Spicy dipping sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Dredge the conch slices in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Fry the conch slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Remove the fried conch slices from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Bahamian Cracked Conch hot with lime wedges and a side of spicy dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Conch meat — Ensure the conch meat is tenderized properly to achieve a tender texture. Pound it gently with a meat mallet or use a tenderizing machine.
• Lime wedges — Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cracked conch before taking a bite to enhance the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the flour mixture.
• Serve the cracked conch with a side of fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
• If conch is not available, you can substitute it with shrimp or calamari.
• To achieve a crispier texture, refrigerate the breaded conch slices for 15 minutes before frying.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces like mango chutney or spicy mayo for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Bahamian Cracked Conch as a main course alongside a refreshing tropical fruit salsa and a side of coconut rice for a complete Caribbean feast.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown cracked conch slices on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and serve with lime wedges on the side. This vibrant and appetizing presentation will entice your guests.