Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this plant-based twist on a beloved classic, Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish. Tender jackfruit is perfectly seasoned to mimic the taste + texture of traditional saltfish, while creamy ackee fruit adds a delightful richness to every bite. Enhanced by aromatic spices and an array of colorful vegetables, this dish promises a burst of Caribbean flavor in every mouthful. Dairy-free + Gluten-free.

Y'all know I'm all about infusing my Jamaican roots into recipes, and lately, I've been getting creative with plant-based twists. I've whipped up BBQ Jerk 'Pulled Pork' Sandwiches and Plant-based Jamaican Oxtail, both seasoned with my homemade jerk blend. Now, I'm thrilled to share my latest creation ---- Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish made with jackfruit --- one of my favorite plant-based ingredients!

Ackee + Saltfish is a real treat to try, especially if you're new to Jamaican cuisine. It has a creamy, slightly nutty taste, while the salted 'fish' adds a savory, briny note. Although it's often served for breakfast, it's just as delicious any time of day. The mix of vibrant colors and flavors, with the yellow ackee and white saltfish (or in our case jackfruit), makes it a total winner. Typically, it's served with tasty sides like fried dumplings.

It's seasoned just right for that perfect balance of spicy + savory goodness. The texture is a mix of tender ackee and flaky 'jackfruit' fish, creating a mouthwatering combo. Plus, it's quick to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for any day of the week! If Jamaican food is your jam, dive into our lineup of 22 Jamaican Foods You Need To Try next!

What Is Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish?

Jamaican Ackee and Saltfish is a classic dish from Jamaica and is actually the national dish. It's made by sautéing salted codfish (or in our case jackfruit) with boiled ackee fruit, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings like Scotch bonnet peppers + thyme. The ackee fruit, when cooked, has a creamy texture similar to scrambled eggs, while the saltfish adds a savory and salty flavor. It's a beloved dish enjoyed for breakfast but perfect for any time of day!

What Does Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish Taste Like?

If you have never had Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish before you're in for a treat it's:

• Creamy in texture from the ackee fruit -- Some say it's similar to scrambled eggs.
• Tender + chewy jackfruit offers a nice vegan option akin to flaky fish.
• Rich savory flavor with hints of brininess from the "saltfish"
• Vibrant + aromatic Jamaican spices add depth and warmth to every bite

How To Make Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish

First, let's give the jackfruit a salty kick by boiling it in salted water. Then, we'll cook up our aromatic veggies and toss in the "saltfish."

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need—just some basic ingredients plus canned jackfruit and canned ackee fruit!

VEGAN ACKEE + SALTFISH:

• Young jackfruit. Drained + rinsed. You can normally find these in the Asian section of your grocery store or on Amazon. Provides the texture mimicking the consistency of fish.
• Water. For boiling.
• Sea salt. Creates the essential "saltiness" in the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to use your favorite high-quality EVOO. My fave tried and trusted brand is California Olive Ranch.
• Onion. Adds savory sweetness.
• Red bell pepper. Brings a vibrant color and mild sweetness.
• Garlic cloves. Minced.
• Scallions. Aka spring onions add a fresh oniony flavor.
• Tomatoes. Diced this contributes acidity and sweetness.
• Fresh thyme sprigs. Infuses earthy herbal notes, you could use dried if you don't have fresh.
• Black pepper.
• Smoked paprika. Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• Scotch bonnet pepper. You can sub with Jamaican Pepper Sauce, if desired.
• Ackee in salt water, drained. The star ingredient, offering a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS JAMAICAN DISH!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish. Everything from my fave pots, wooden spoons, bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

What Is Ackee?

Ackee is a tropical fruit primarily found in Jamaica --- where it's the national fruit. It has bright red pods that open up to reveal creamy yellow flesh and black seeds. When cooked, the flesh has a texture similar to scrambled eggs and a mild, nutty flavor.

Where To Buy Ackee?

You can grab canned ackee at most grocery stores, often hanging out in the international or canned goods aisle. If it's not available locally, you can always order it online from places like Amazon. And if you're lucky enough to be in an area where ackee grows fresh, you can definitely use that too.

What To Eat With Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish

Usually, folks enjoy this dish for breakfast, but honestly, it's so good, you can dig in anytime! Here are some of my favorite Jamaican sides + more to go with it, though it's tasty enough to savor all by yourself.

• Soft + doughy boiled or fried dumplings they're great for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Jamaican rice + peas --- Fragrant coconut-infused rice with kidney beans adds richness and protein.
• Festival aka sweet fried dough sticks.
• Brown or basmati rice to soak up the delicious juices.
• Less traditional but equally yummy would be some naan bread.

Q + A's For Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish

More Vegan Recipes That You'll Love!

Do you love Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish and want to try more plant-based recipes? Here are some reader faves!

• Plant-based Jamaican Oxtail
• Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl
• My Fave Quinoa Salad
• Jamaican Immune-Boosting Green Veggie Swamp Soup
• Gochujang Sweet Potato + Chickpea Bowl
• Plant-based General Tso Chicken

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish

April 16, 2024 •

By Shanika

5 from 1 vote

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this plant-based twist on a beloved classic, Vegan Jamaican Ackee + Saltfish. Tender jackfruit is perfectly seasoned to mimic the taste + texture of traditional saltfish, while creamy ackee fruit adds a delightful richness to every bite. Enhanced by aromatic spices and an array of colorful vegetables, this dish promises a burst of Caribbean flavor in every mouthful. Dairy-free + Gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Cook Time: 15 minutes mins

Total Time: 30 minutes mins

Serves: 6 servings

Units:

US Customary|Metric

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Ingredients

VEGAN ACKEE + SALTFISH:

• 2 cans young jackfruit, drained + rinsed
• water, for boiling
• 2-3 Tbsps sea salt (This creates the "saltiness" taste)
• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil + 3 Tbsps!
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 scallions, chopped (aka green onions)
• 2 tomatoes, diced (You can use tomatoes-on-the-vine, roma, grape, etc.)
• 2 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (You can sub with Jamaican Pepper Sauce, if desired)
• 1 (19oz.) can ackee in salt water, drained

Instructions

TO MAKE THE VEGAN SALTFISH:

• In a pot over medium-high heat filled with water, add the drained jackfruit pieces along with the salt, stirring together. Bring to a boil and let the jackfruit cook for 10 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and drain.

TO MAKE THE ACKEE + SALTFISH:

• In a medium skillet (10-inch) over medium-high heat, add 2 Tbsps of olive oil. Once heated, add the onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the chopped bell peppers, scallions, tomatoes, and minced scotch bonnet pepper, sautéing until veggies are slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
• Add the drained cooked jackfruit, drained ackee, and thyme sprigs, stirring gently to combine. Reduce heat to low and allow everything to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is completely tender and jackfruit becomes tender enough to shred slightly with a fork.
• Towards the FINAL 5 minutes of cooking or so, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil (if things dry out too much). NOTE: You want to have a good amount of gravy to serve over the side dish.
• Remove from heat and serve the plant-based ackee + saltfish atop your favorite side like basmati rice, brown rice, fried dumpling, boiled dumpling, breadfruit, etc.
• Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

• STORAGE: Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add leftovers in a skillet over the stovetop and add a splash of olive oil or water is needed to create more gray and cook until fully heated through.
• SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
• SCOTCH BONNET PEPPER: If you'd like, you can increase the amount of scotch bonnet peppers used in this dish or substitute with habanero peppers, if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 17kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 2716mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 761IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 0.4mg

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