If you're looking for a delicious and healthy seafood dish, you can't go wrong with Jamaican-style steamed fish.
This classic Caribbean recipe features fresh fish that is steamed with a variety of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a flavourful and tender dish that is sure to impress.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
To prepare the perfect Jamaican-style steamed fish, you'll need to start with fresh fish that has been cleaned and scaled.
You can use a variety of fish for this recipe, but red snapper is a popular choice.
Once you have your fish, you'll need to season it with a blend of herbs and spices, including thyme, garlic, scallions, and scotch bonnet peppers.
These ingredients will give your fish a delicious and authentic flavour that is typical of Jamaican cuisine.
Before you start cooking your Jamaican-style steamed fish, you need to prepare the fish properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Selecting the Right Fish
The first step is to select the right fish. You want to use fresh fish, preferably caught the same day.
Some of the best fish to use for this recipe include snapper, bream, or trout. Make sure the fish is gutted and scaled before you start preparing it.
Cleaning and Seasoning
Once you have your fish, you need to clean it properly. Rinse the fish under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Then, rub the fish with salt and pepper, both inside and out. You can also season the fish with thyme, garlic, and onion for added flavour.
Marinating the Fish
If you have time, you can marinate the fish for a few hours before cooking it.
To do this, mix lime juice, fish seasoning, scallion, and ginger in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the fish, both inside and out, and let it marinate in the fridge for at least two hours.
Now that you have prepared your fish, you are ready to start cooking your Jamaican-style steamed fish.
Assembling the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients you need for Jamaican-style steamed fish.
You will need fresh fish fillets, such as red snapper or tilapia, along with onions, bell peppers, okra, carrots, and tomatoes. You will also need herbs like thyme and pimento berries, as well as green onions and garlic for seasoning.
To add more flavour to your dish, you can also include ground provisions like potatoes and cabbage, and serve it with traditional Jamaican sides like bammy, festival, and rice and peas. Don't forget to have some water crackers on hand to enjoy with your meal.
Steaming Process
To cook the fish, you will need a large pot or skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
Start by seasoning the fish fillets with salt and black pepper, then place them in the pot. Add the vegetables and herbs on top of the fish, then pour in enough water or broth to cover everything.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it tightly. Let the fish steam for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through and moist. You can also add some vinegar to the pot to reduce the fishy aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Once the fish is cooked, you can serve it with the vegetables and a medley of ground provisions. You can also make a light gravy by mixing some coconut milk with the broth from the pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fish is ideal for a Jamaican steamed fish dish?
The most popular fish used in Jamaican steamed fish recipes is red snapper. However, you can also use other types of fish such as parrotfish, grouper, or sea bass. The key is to use a firm-fleshed fish that can hold up well during the steaming process.
Can you use coconut milk when steaming fish, Jamaican style?
Yes, coconut milk is a common ingredient in Jamaican steamed fish recipes. It adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish. You can use either canned or fresh coconut milk, depending on your preference.
What are the essential ingredients for a traditional Jamaican steamed fish?
The essential ingredients for a traditional Jamaican steamed fish dish include fish, onions, garlic, scallions, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, okra, tomatoes, and lime juice. Other common seasonings include salt, black pepper, and allspice. You can also add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and pumpkin.
How can you incorporate pumpkin into a Jamaican steamed fish recipe?
Pumpkin is a popular ingredient in Jamaican cuisine, and it can be incorporated into a steamed fish recipe in various ways.
You can add chopped pumpkin to the pot along with the other vegetables, or you can use pumpkin puree to thicken the sauce. Some recipes also call for adding pumpkin slices on top of the fish before steaming.
What's the best way to steam fish in an oven with Jamaican flavours?
To steam fish in an oven with Jamaican flavours, you can use a parchment paper or aluminum foil packet. Place the fish and vegetables in the center of the packet, season with Jamaican spices, and add a splash of lime juice. Seal the packet tightly and bake in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Is steamed fish considered a healthy meal option?
Yes, steamed fish is a healthy meal option as it is low in calories and high in protein.
It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. However, the overall healthiness of the dish depends on the ingredients used and the portion size.