Callaloo and SaltFish

Authentic Jamaican Callaloo and SaltFish — a delicious side dish with 10 ingredients. Follow our detailed step-by-step instructions for the perfect result.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

15

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

200

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Callaloo and SaltFish

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 lb Salt Cod
  • 4 Bacon
  • 525 g Callaloo
  • 1 chopped Onion
  • 2 chopped Spring Onions
  • 2 cloves minced Garlic
  • 1 chopped Scotch Bonnet
  • 2 chopped Plum Tomatoes
  • 2 sprigs Thyme
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

4 steps · ~31 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Soak salted fish in water overnight. Next, heat salted fish in water on stove until water boils. You should see a foam on top. Remove from heat and drain. Set aside and shred salted fish once it cools.

    10 minutes
    Use a large pot to prevent boiling over. Add salt to the water for extra flavor.
  2. Step 2

    Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from heat and drain the majority of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.

    5 minutes
    Save some of the cooking liquid — it can be used to adjust sauce consistency.
  3. Step 3

    Add yellow onion, green onion, scotch bonnet pepper, and garlic to the skillet and stir. Cook for about 2 minutes or until onions soften. Add salted fish to skillet and stir. Cook for about a minute.

    8 minutes
    Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.
  4. Step 4

    Next, add callaloo, roma tomatoes, thyme, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.

    8 minutes
    Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Jamaican recipe for Callaloo and SaltFish is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Jamaican cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 1 day in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 1 month — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Avoid microwaving seafood as it can become rubbery.

What to Serve With

Complete your jamaican meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice or crusty bread
🍽️A fresh green salad
🍽️Seasonal roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Callaloo and SaltFish is a beloved dish from Jamaican cuisine, originating in Jamaica. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors from Africa, Europe, and Asia. Known for its bold seasonings, jerk-style cooking, and tropical ingredients.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to prepare saltfish is to soak it in water overnight to remove excess salt. If you're short on time, you can also boil it in water for about 20 minutes, then drain and rinse.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories200kcal
Total Fat9g
Sodium472mg
Total Carbohydrates22g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein24g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineJamaican
CategoryDinner
CountryJamaica