Saltfish Buljol with a Twist

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) salted codfish 1 pound (450g) salted codfish
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the salted codfish in water overnight, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Drain and rinse the fish.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
3. 3.
   Add the salted codfish to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it into small flakes with a fork.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomato, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and squeeze the lime juice over the dish. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Salted codfish — Soaking the codfish overnight is crucial to remove excess salt and rehydrate the fish. Be sure to change the water several times to ensure the fish is not overly salty.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped scotch bonnet pepper.
• Serve with a side of avocado slices or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more black pepper or herbs for extra flavor.

Serving advice

Saltfish Buljol is traditionally served as a main course alongside rice, roti, or crusty bread. It can also be enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer or a side dish.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Saltfish Buljol with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant dish to showcase the beautiful array of vegetables.