Stocafi with a Caribbean Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Stocafi, we incorporate the vibrant flavors of the US Virgin Islands by using local ingredients such as bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and scotch bonnet peppers. The addition of these ingredients adds a Caribbean twist to the dish, infusing it with a burst of flavors and a hint of spiciness that is characteristic of the cuisine of the US Virgin Islands. We alse have the original recipe for Stocafi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) salted cod, soaked and desalted 500g (1.1 lb) salted cod, soaked and desalted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the salted cod in cold water overnight, changing the water several times to remove excess salt. Drain and rinse the cod before using.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, minced scotch bonnet pepper, thyme leaves, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
4. 4.
   Add the desalted cod to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cod is tender and flakes easily.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Caribbean Salted Cod Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with rice or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Salted cod — Soaking the salted cod overnight is crucial to remove excess salt and ensure a milder flavor. Rinse the cod thoroughly before using it in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier stew, you can increase the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or leave the seeds in.
• Serve the stew with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• For added depth of flavor, you can sauté the salted cod before adding it to the stew.

Serving advice

Caribbean Salted Cod Stew is best served hot, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Caribbean Salted Cod Stew in a deep bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the stew to shine through. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for an added touch of green. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread on a colorful plate to create an appetizing presentation.