Authentic Jamaican Saltfish Fritters

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 9–10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Best For: Breakfast, Snacks, Appetizers

Ingredients

For the Saltfish

• 12 oz dried salted codfish

• 4–5 cups water (for boiling)

For the Batter

• 3 green onions, finely chopped

• 1 large Roma tomato, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped

• ½ Scotch bonnet pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped (optional)

• ¾ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon Maggi All Purpose Seasoning

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1¼–1½ cups cold water

• About 1½ cups vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Rinse the salted cod under cold running water.

2. Place the saltfish in a large pot and cover with 4–5 cups of water, making sure the fish is fully submerged. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–18 minutes to remove the excess salt. Foam may rise to the surface while boiling, so keep an eye on the pot to prevent it from boiling over.

   Note: Thicker pieces of saltfish with the bone still attached may require 18–20 minutes of boiling. Thinner, boneless pieces are usually ready in about 15 minutes.

3. Drain the saltfish and allow it to cool slightly. Remove any skin and bones if necessary, then flake the fish into small pieces.

   Alternative Method: Soak the salted cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water several times. Once soaked, boil for 4–5 minutes, drain, and flake.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked saltfish, green onions, tomato, thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), black pepper, and Maggi All Purpose Seasoning. Mix well until evenly combined.

5. Add the all-purpose flour and stir until everything is evenly coated.

6. Gradually pour in the cold water, mixing continuously until a smooth batter forms. The batter should slowly fall from a spoon. If it's too thick, add a little more water. If it's too thin, add a tablespoon of flour.

7. Heat about 1½ cups of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small spoonful of batter. If it sizzles immediately and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

8. Spoon about ¼ cup of batter into the hot oil for each fritter, leaving enough space between them.

9. Fry for approximately 3 minutes, then flip. Continue flipping every 3 minutes until both sides are evenly golden brown and crispy. Total frying time is approximately 9–10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the fritters.

10. Remove the fritters using a fork or tongs and place them on a wire rack to drain or paper towel. Serve warm and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Fried Plantains

• A cup of hot Jamaican tea

• Grace Mackerel

• Grace Baked Beans and Grace Vienna Sausage

Yaad Pantry Tip

The consistency of your batter determines the texture of your fritters. A slightly thinner batter creates lighter, crispier fritters, while a thicker batter produces a heartier bite. Add the cold water gradually until the batter slowly falls from the spoon.

Pro Tips

• Watch the saltfish carefully while boiling, as foam can cause the pot to boil over.

• Taste the boiled saltfish before making the batter. If it's still too salty, boil it for a few more minutes.

• For extra heat, leave a few Scotch bonnet seeds in the pepper. For a milder flavor, omit the pepper or substitute a small amount of habanero.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve crispy fritters.

• Drain the fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil.

• The amount of water used will affect the final texture. Less water produces thicker fritters, while more water creates thinner, crispier fritters.

Recipe Notes

• The amount of salt remaining in the codfish will vary depending on the brand and thickness of the fish. Avoid adding extra salt until you've fried and tasted the first fritter.

• These fritters are best served fresh but can be reheated in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore their crispiness.

• These crispy saltfish fritters are a beloved breakfast, snack, and party favorite that's easy to make and full of authentic island flavor.