Features, Lifestyle

Traditional St. Lucian dish: Green Fig and Saltfish.

This dish is considered the national dish of St. Lucia and is beloved for its rich flavors and cultural significance.

Green Fig and Saltfish Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb saltfish (codfish)
  • 8-10 green bananas (green figs)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 hot pepper (optional), finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 stalks green onions (scallions), chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
green fig and saltfish
Green Fig and Saltfish, Photo by Alice Noel

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Saltfish:
    • Rinse the saltfish to remove some of the salt.
    • Soak the saltfish in water for a few hours or overnight to further reduce the saltiness.
    • Boil the saltfish in fresh water for about 10 minutes. Drain and rinse again.
    • Flake the fish into small pieces, removing any bones.
  2. Cook the Green Bananas (Green Figs):
    • Cut off the ends of the bananas and make a shallow cut along the length of each banana.
    • Boil the bananas in a pot of water with a pinch of salt until they are tender (about 20 minutes).
    • Drain and allow them to cool slightly. Peel the bananas and cut them into slices.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
    • Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and hot pepper (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
    • Add the tomatoes, green onions, thyme, and parsley. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Combine the Ingredients:
    • Add the flaked saltfish to the pan with the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
    • Cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • Season with black pepper and additional salt if needed.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the saltfish mixture over the sliced green bananas.
    • Enjoy your traditional St. Lucian Green Fig and Saltfish!

This dish is typically enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or lunch and is a wonderful way to experience the flavors of St. Lucia.

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