SAUTEED PICKLED RED HERRING SERVED WITH WHOLE-WHEAT FRIED DUMPLINGS, STEAMED CALLALOO (JAMAICAN SPINACH) AND FRIED PLANTAINS
A few days aback, it was quite a Jamaican guilty-treat. Had the craving for a dish a tad salty and chock-full of flavors and aromatic spices. Decided on a traditional Jamaican dish, pickled red herring. After removing the excess sodium by rinsing and soaking in boiling water a few times, herring was ready for the next steps. The other ingredients:
Onions (1 small)
Chopped bell peppers
Scotch bonnet peppers (finely chopped)
Pimento (all spice) 1/4 tsp
Scallion (stalk)
Thyme (sprig)
Crushed garlic (1 clove) optional
Vinegar (splash)
Plummy tomatoes (2)
Canola oil
Method:
In a hot skillet, a drizzle of oil was added along with onions and bell peppers. After these were translucent, tomatoes, crushed garlic, finely chopped scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, pimento were added. These were seasoned with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
Under low heat, red herring was added along with a splash of vinegar and pinch of sugar for balance. This was simmered with lid on for a few minutes until all the flavors blended.
Pickled red herring was served with steamed Jamaican spinach (callaloo), fried dumplings (made from combination of whole-wheat and all-purpose flours) and fried plantains.
I'm originally from the beautiful island of Jamaica. In Jamaica, we always find a reason to celebrate. And, when there's a celebration, there is music, fun and of course, food, great food.
Presently, I reside in So. Florida.Living here in Florida offers varied cultures, people of different ethnic backgrounds.
I've a great passion for the culinary side of life. Therefore, being in So. Fl., provides me the great accessibility of fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables. Moreover, I've the choice to indulge in a amazing foods from different cuisines.This ability provides great inspiration for me to retreat to my humble kitchenette and replicate these dishes.It warms my heart to be able to break bread with loved ones.
I'm an avid reader and love to get lost between these beautiful words. I find reading to be a social activity because it allows me a peek inside other people's minds which in turn makes me more empathetic towards others. One day in the near future, I hope to publish my very own words in the area of poetry as well as my other love, food.
Yoga and speed walking are just a few of the things that keep me balanced and centered. I love family and friends; and, of course, wholesome foods with a glass of cocktail. Life is what you make of it. And, I try to savor and enjoy the simple and precious moments.
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