Bahamian Steamed Fish

Ingredients

While the Jamaican Steamed Fish is known for its fiery flavors and the use of Scotch bonnet peppers, the Bahamian adaptation takes a milder approach. The Bahamian version focuses on the natural flavors of the fish and incorporates a blend of Bahamian spices, such as thyme, allspice, and paprika, to create a more balanced and aromatic dish. Additionally, the Bahamian Steamed Fish often includes colorful bell peppers, which add a vibrant touch to the presentation. We alse have the original recipe for Jamaican Steamed Fish, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) fresh fish fillets (such as snapper or grouper) 2 pounds (900g) fresh fish fillets (such as snapper or grouper)
• 2 limes, juiced 2 limes, juiced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, thyme leaves, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large steamer pot, add water and bring it to a boil.
4. 4.
   Place the marinated fish fillets on a steamer rack and top them with sliced onions, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the steamer rack in the pot, cover it with a lid, and steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the steamer rack from the pot and transfer the fish to a serving platter.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with fluffy white rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish — Choose fresh fish fillets with firm flesh, such as snapper or grouper, for the best results. Ensure that the fish is properly cleaned and scaled before marinating.
• Lime juice — Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Bahamian spices — Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a milder or spicier taste.
• Bell peppers — Opt for a mix of colorful bell peppers, such as red, yellow, and green, to add visual appeal to the dish.
• Fresh cilantro — Use fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing to enhance the flavors of the Bahamian Steamed Fish.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavors, you can add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade.
• For a spicier version, you can include a small amount of Scotch bonnet pepper in the marinade.
• Serve the Bahamian Steamed Fish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra zing.
• Experiment with different types of fish to find your favorite combination of flavors.
• If you don't have a steamer pot, you can use a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid and steam the fish on a bed of sliced onions and bell peppers.

Serving advice

Serve the Bahamian Steamed Fish hot, accompanied by fluffy white rice and a side of steamed vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the steamed fish fillets on a platter and top them with the colorful bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Drizzle any remaining juices from the steamer pot over the fish for added flavor. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for an attractive presentation.