Callaloo is both the name of a leafy green vegetable (similar to amaranth or taro leaves) and a famous Caribbean side dish.3 This version combines the nutritious stewed greens with shredded, rehydrated salt codfish (saltfish) and fiery seasonings.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Serves |
| 12 hours (Soaking) | 40 minutes | 4 |
Part A: Ingredients
- Greens: 1 large bunch Callaloo (or substitute 1 lb frozen/fresh chopped Spinach or Kale), 1 medium Onion, diced.
- Saltfish: $1/2$ lb Dried Salt Codfish (Bacalao), 2 Tbsp Cooking Oil.
- Flavor/Heat: 2 cloves Garlic, minced, 1 whole Scotch Bonnet Pepper, 1 Tbsp Fresh Thyme leaves, $1/2$ cup Water or Stock.
- Binder: 1 medium Tomato, diced.

Part B: Instructions
Step 1: Desalinate the Saltfish (Overnight)
- Place the salt codfish in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for at least 12 hours, changing the water 2-3 times to remove excess salt.
- Drain the saltfish. Boil the fish in fresh water for 15 minutes. Drain, cool, and flake the fish into small pieces, removing any bones or skin.
Step 2: Sautรฉ Aromatics
- If using fresh Callaloo, wash and chop the leaves and soft stems.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sautรฉ for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add the minced garlic, diced tomato, and fresh thyme. Cook for 3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
- Add the shredded saltfish and the chopped callaloo (or substitute greens) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Add the $1/2$ cup of water/stock. Place the whole Scotch Bonnet pepper on top of the greens (do not break the pepper, or the dish will be extremely hot).
- Cover the pot and simmer for 20โ30 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the liquid has reduced to a thick sauce. Stir once or twice.
Step 4: Serve
- Carefully remove the Scotch Bonnet pepper. Taste and add black pepper if needed (salt is usually sufficient from the fish).
- Serve the Callaloo with Saltfish hot, traditionally alongside roasted breadfruit, yam, or rice.


Leave a Reply