Jamaican Smoked Fish Spread

Ingredients

• 2 cups (300g) smoked mackerel or herring, flaked 2 cups (300g) smoked mackerel or herring, flaked
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Crackers or toasted bread, for serving Crackers or toasted bread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 4g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the flaked smoked fish, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the allspice, dried thyme, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Pour the seasoned oil over the fish mixture and toss to combine.
4. 4.
   Add the lime juice and mayonnaise to the bowl and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. 5.
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
7. 7.
   Serve the Jamaican Smoked Fish Spread with crackers or toasted bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked Mackerel or Herring — If you can't find smoked mackerel or herring, you can substitute it with other smoked fish like trout or salmon.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper — Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the spread.
• Customize the level of heat by adjusting the amount of scotch bonnet pepper.
• Serve the Jamaican Smoked Fish Spread as a dip with plantain chips for a Caribbean twist.
• Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a unique flavor profile.
• Make a larger batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Jamaican Smoked Fish Spread as an appetizer or snack. It pairs well with crackers, toasted bread, or even vegetable sticks. For a more elaborate presentation, you can serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl surrounded by an assortment of fresh vegetables.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Jamaican Smoked Fish Spread with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color. Arrange the spread on a platter with the crackers or toasted bread neatly arranged around it. Consider using a wooden or ceramic serving dish to enhance the rustic and authentic feel of the dish.