Jamaican Cookery

Red pickled herring is a beloved traditional Jamaican dish, known for its bold, salty flavor and simplicity. It's often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or brunch, served with ground provisions like yam, dumplings, plantain, and green bananas. This easy recipe brings the authentic taste of Jamaica right to your kitchen!

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

5 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Servings:

2–3 people

Ingredients:

• ½ lb. red (pickled) herring

• 1 large tomato, chopped

• ½ Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped

• 1 small onion, chopped

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional)

• 1–2 tablespoons cooking oil

Method:

1. Soak the Herring:
   Place the red herring in warm water and soak for about 10 minutes. Discard the water.

2. Clean the Herring:
   Remove the head, skin, and some of the bones. Flake the herring into small pieces with your hands.

3. Cook the Seasonings:
   Heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the chopped onion, tomato, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sprinkle in the black pepper.

4. Add Herring:
   Stir everything together and add the flaked herring to the pan. Add ketchup if using (optional).

5. Simmer:
   Cover the saucepan and allow everything to simmer for about 1 minute. Remove from heat.

Serve hot with boiled dumplings, yam, ripe plantain, or cooked green bananas.