Caribbean Saltfish and Ackee Breakfast Bowl
CaribbeanBreakfast

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This traditional Caribbean breakfast bowl brings together the iconic flavors of the islands in one satisfying dish. Salted cod, a staple throughout the Caribbean, is rehydrated and flaked before being sautéed with aromatic vegetables including bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. The fish is combined with fluffy scrambled eggs creating a protein-rich base that is both comforting and energizing. Sweet fried plantains add natural sweetness and a caramelized texture, while creamy avocado provides healthy fats and balances the saltiness of the fish. This one-pot breakfast is popular across Caribbean nations including Jamaica, Trinidad, and Barbados, often enjoyed on lazy weekend mornings or as a special occasion brunch. The dish showcases the Caribbean tradition of bold seasoning, fresh ingredients, and creating complete meals that fuel the day ahead with both flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Rinse the salted cod under cold water, then place in a bowl and cover with fresh water. Soak for 2-3 hours or overnight, changing the water twice to remove excess salt.

  2. Drain the cod and place in a saucepan with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

  3. Once cooled, flake the cod with your fingers, removing any bones or skin. Set aside.

  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3 minutes until softened.

  5. Add diced bell peppers and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

  6. Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down slightly.

  7. Add the flaked saltfish to the skillet and mix well with the vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs with a splash of milk and black pepper.

  9. Push the saltfish mixture to the sides of the skillet and pour the eggs into the center. Scramble gently until just set, then fold together with the saltfish mixture.

  10. While the saltfish cooks, heat vegetable oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Slice plantains diagonally and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized.

  11. To serve, divide the saltfish and egg mixture among bowls. Top with fried plantain slices and avocado slices. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Caribbean Saltfish and Ackee Breakfast Bowl

4.2 (20)

A vibrant Caribbean breakfast featuring flaky salted cod sautéed with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and scrambled eggs, served with fried plantains and avocado for a hearty island-style morning meal.

medium
45 min
4 servings

Ingredients

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Main Protein

  • 400 grams salmon, salted cod, soaked and flaked
  • 6 pieces eggs, whisked

Sides

  • 2 pieces plantain, peeled and sliced diagonally

Toppings

  • 1 pieces avocado, sliced

Vegetables

  • 1 pieces onions, diced
  • 1 pieces bell-peppers, diced
  • 2 pieces tomatoes, diced

Aromatics

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoons thyme, dried or fresh
  • 1 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoons cayenne, ground (optional)

Cooking Oils

  • 3 tablespoons olive-oil, for sautéing
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable-oil, for frying plantains

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 pieces lime, cut into wedges (optional)

Dairy

  • 1/4 cups milk, for eggs (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the most authentic flavor, use traditional salted cod which can be found at Caribbean markets or specialty stores.
If unavailable, substitute with fresh cod and add extra salt to taste.
The soaking process is crucial for removing excess salt, so do not skip this step.
For a spicier version, add scotch bonnet pepper or increase the cayenne.
The plantains should be ripe with yellow skin and black spots for the perfect balance of sweet and starchy.
You can prepare the saltfish mixture the night before and simply reheat and add eggs in the morning for a quicker breakfast.
This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk or omitting it entirely.
For added nutrition, serve with a side of steamed callaloo or sautéed spinach.
The recipe easily doubles for larger gatherings and is perfect for brunch entertaining.