Start Your Day Right with Savory Saltfish Buljol – A Caribbean Breakfast Delight

I used to love this dish as a little girl. Cured cod, desalted and stewed with colorful peppers, onions, and loads of spices. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! If you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine with something hearty and full of flavor, look no further than one of my favorites – Saltfish Buljol. This Caribbean classic is protein-packed and perfect for starting your day with a burst of savory goodness.

Why Saltfish Buljol is a Caribbean Classic:

Saltfish Buljol has been a staple in Caribbean kitchens for generations, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of salt-cured cod with fresh veggies and herbs is pure magic. Whether you’re serving it with bakes, bread, or just on its own, every bite brings a taste of the islands right to your plate.

The Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own Saltfish Buljol:

• Salted dried cod (or salted Alaskan pollock): The star of the show, with its savory, rich flavor.
• Avocado oil or light olive oil: For a light, healthy base to sauté the aromatics.
• Diced tomatoes: They bring a fresh, juicy element to balance out the saltiness.
• Onions, diced: For that essential aromatic base and a bit of crunch.
• Diced bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
• Garlic, grated: Because what’s a Caribbean dish without bold, vibrant flavors?
• Scallions, diced: To add a mild, oniony flavor.
• Dried thyme or fresh sprig: Elevates the dish with a burst of herbal aroma.
• Diced Scotch bonnet or Habanero pepper (optional): For those who like a little heat.
• Black pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.

The Method:

1. In a medium-sized pot, cover the salted cod with water. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat. Let the cod soak for one hour.
2. Drain the water from the cod and replace it with fresh water. Bring to a boil again, turn off the heat, and let it soak for one more hour.
3. Drain off the water from the cod and use a fork to flake the cod into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
4. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Next, add thyme and sauté for 30 more seconds.
6. Add the diced scallions, bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper if using. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté for 2 more minutes.
8. Finally, add the prepared codfish to the skillet with the aromatics, season with black pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions:

Saltfish Buljol is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Traditionally, it’s served with roasted breadfruit, bake, or flatbread, but it’s just as good on toast or even with rice. However you decide to serve it, I promise you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Saltfish Buljol:

• Packed with Protein: It’s a great way to fuel up for the day ahead.
• Bursting with Flavor: Salty, savory, and fresh all in one bite.
• Simple to Make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious breakfast in no time.
• A Taste of the Caribbean: Bring a bit of island flavor to your morning.

Conclusion:

Saltfish Buljol isn’t just breakfast – it’s a nostalgic trip to the Caribbean, full of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re familiar with Caribbean cuisine or trying it out for the first time, this dish is a must-try. So go ahead, give it a shot, and start your day the Caribbean way – you won’t regret it!

Saltfish Buljol (stew)

A savory Caribbean breakfast made with salted cod, peppers, onions and other aromatics. It's a protein-packed, delicious way to start your day.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Caribbean

Servings 4

Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound salted dried cod (or salted Alaskan paddock)
• 1/3 cup avocado oil or light olive oil
• 1.5 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 medium onions, diced.
• 3/4 cup diced bell pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, grated.
• 4 stalks scallions, diced.
• 1.5 teaspoon dried thyme or use fresh sprig
• 1/2 teaspoon diced scotch bonnet or Habanero pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Cover salted cod with water in a medium-sized pot. Bring water to a boil and turn off the heat. Let cod soak for one hour.
• Drain water from cod and replace it with fresh water. Bring to a boil again, turn off the heat and let soak for one more hour.
• Drain off water from the cod and use a fork to flake cod into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Next, add thyme and saute for 30 more seconds. Add diced scallions, bell pepper, scallions, and scotch bonnet pepper if using. Saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add diced tomatoes and saute for 2 more minutes. Add prepared codfish to the skillet with the aromatics, add black pepper and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Place 1/2 cup servings on a plate and serve with roasted breadfruit, flatbread, toast or even rice. Enjoy!

Keyword quick