Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!

Easy Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe

Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.

start_here_if_new_image_link

see_jamaica_in_videos_banner_july_2024_large
jamaican_saltfish_rundownEasy Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Saltfish run down is a cherished traditional Jamaican dish that certainly won't win any beauty contests, but it boasts a taste that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine. Creamy, rich in flavour, and brimming with coconut goodness, this underrated recipe is a must-try for any culinary explorer, excited about trying Jamaican dishes.

New! Take a piece of Jamaica with you💃!

Savour the memories!  Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store. Click Here to learn more.


And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!

In Jamaica, "rundung," as we affectionately pronounce it, involves simmering ingredients in coconut milk until they meld into a harmonious blend. Traditionally, this can feature seafood or vegetables, but saltfish takes centre stage in this version.

The combination of sweet coconut, the savoury punch of saltfish, and a medley of spices—like thyme, pimento berries, and scotch bonnet pepper—creates a dish that's as bold as it is comforting. It’s the perfect blend of creaminess, saltiness and spice.

Saltfish Run Down vs. Salt Mackerel Run Down

While saltfish run down is delicious, salt mackerel run down is the more popular and go-to version, and offers a distinct variation. Salt mackerel, like saltfish, undergoes a curing process with salt but retains a different texture and flavour profile.

Salt mackerel tends to be firmer and has a stronger, slightly more assertive flavour compared to the subtler saltfish. You can give our Salt Mackerel Run Down recipe a try.

Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups homemade coconut milk (canned coconut milk can be used as an alternative)
  • 250g (0.55 lb) saltfish
  • 25g (0.88 oz) yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 50g (1.76 oz) bell pepper, chopped
  • 15g (0.53 oz) scallions, chopped
  • 3 sprigs thyme
  • 4 pimento berries (allspice)
  • 3g (0.11 oz) scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
  • 15g (0.53 oz) tomato, chopped

PROCEDURE

  1. Prepare the Saltfish: Wash the saltfish thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Soak it overnight in cold water, changing the water two to three times. For boneless, skinless saltfish, a shorter soak of 2 to 3 hours may suffice. Boil the saltfish in fresh water for 15 to 20 minutes to further reduce saltiness. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Remove the skin and bones if necessary, then flake the fish and set aside.

  2. Cook the Coconut Milk: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the coconut milk until it reduces to a thick, custard-like consistency. Look for the coconut oil to start separating from the milk.

  3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, scallions, thyme, pimento berries, scotch bonnet pepper, and tomato into the thickened coconut milk. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, frequently stirring until the bell pepper softens and flavours meld together.

  4. Serve: Saltfish run-down pairs traditionally with "hard food" like boiled ground provisions and dumplings. It also complements fried dumplings, fried plantain, bammy, or boiled rice.

Tips for the Perfect Saltfish Run Down:

  • Homemade Coconut Milk: For the most authentic flavour, make your own coconut milk. Blend grated coconut with water, then strain through a cheesecloth or fine sieve.
  • Control the Salt: Taste the saltfish before cooking. If it's too salty after soaking, boil it again or change the soaking water more frequently.
  • Adjust the Heat: Scotch bonnet pepper is potent. Start with a small amount and add more gradually if you prefer a spicier dish.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh thyme and pimento berries for a more vibrant flavour. Dried spices can work in a pinch but won't have the same impact.
  • Texture Balance: Ensure the coconut milk reduces to a custard-like consistency. This thickness helps coat the saltfish and vegetables, providing a rich and creamy texture.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking process to avoid burning the coconut milk. Stir frequently and cook on a moderate heat to prevent sticking.

I am sure once you try this quick and easy recipe, it will soon become one of your favourites. And when you are ready for dessert, choose a recipe from our ebook, Jamaican Sweet Treats, for something even sweeter. 

You might like these

Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)


If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more. 

It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica! 

Return to Jamaican Seafood Dishes from Easy Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe 
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from Easy Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe

References & Sources For Easy Jamaican Saltfish Run Down Recipe

  1. Lesa. (2024, May 3). Jamaican Saltfish Run Down (Rundung). Jamaican Foods and Recipes. https://jamaicanfoodsandrecipes.com/jamaican-saltfish-run-down-rundung/

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.
Back To The Top Of This Page

New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿

JAMAICA_ON_A_BUDGET_EBOOK_COVER_LEAN

You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise!

JAMAICA On A Budget is your passport to experiencing what I call 'The Real Jamaica' on a budget!

I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now!

See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!

my_island_jamaica_channel_tv

My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers.

Jamaica_subscribe_button

Read More ...

New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!

P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for? 
Still need help?

Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!

Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.

copyscape
Back To The Top Of This Page

Like My Site? Please Click Here To Share It With Your Friends

Home   |   JOIN US   |   Site Search   |   Have Your Say   |   Archives   |   Old Archives   |   Contact   |   Disclaimer   |   TIP ME!   |   Link To Us


Do like I did! Share your passion
(about your city, hobby or experience) and make a living from it. Click Here to see how.

By Wellesley Gayle   |   Copyright © 2007-2024 My-Island-Jamaica.com   |   All rights Reserved.   |   Privacy Policy