Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
bake and saltfish origin

Bake and Saltfish


  • Author: Sofia Sarah
  • Total Time: 1 hour (plus soaking time)

Description

A traditional Caribbean breakfast dish consisting of fried dumplings (bake) served with seasoned saltfish (salted cod). This hearty meal is popular throughout the Caribbean, especially in Trinidad and Tobago.


Ingredients

For the Bake

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold water (approximately)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Saltfish

  • 1 pound salted cod fish
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 hot pepper (Scotch Bonnet or Habanero), seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Saltfish (Start 24 hours ahead)

  1. Rinse saltfish under cold water.
  2. Place in a bowl and cover with cold water.
  3. Soak for 12-24 hours, changing water 2-3 times to remove excess salt.
  4. After soaking, drain and shred into small pieces, removing any bones.

Making the Bake

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  2. Gradually add water while kneading to form a smooth, firm dough.
  3. Cover and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Divide dough into 8 equal portions and shape into balls.
  5. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  7. Fry bakes for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and puffed.
  8. Drain on paper towels.

Cooking the Saltfish

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Add shredded saltfish and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add tomato, hot pepper, bell pepper, and thyme.
  5. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add green onions and black pepper.
  7. Cook for additional 2-3 minutes.

Serving

  1. Split bakes horizontally while warm.
  2. Fill with seasoned saltfish.
  3. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Saltfish must be properly soaked to remove excess salt
  • Bakes should be fried until golden but not too dark
  • Can add additional vegetables like carrots or cabbage to saltfish
  • Adjust hot pepper amount according to taste
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg