Saltfish is one of the main ingredients in the Jamaican national dish, ackee and saltfish. Authentic Jamaican saltfish is hard to find in Germany, but you can easily make it yourself. This is not only delicious but also gives you complete control over the quality of your fish. Here, I'll show you how to make saltfish using the dehydrating function of your air fryer or oven.
Ingredients
600g cod with skin (preferably fillet) Approximately 1 kg of coarse sea salt (depending on the size of the fillets and the container)
Essential equipment
Air fryer or oven with dehydration function A sufficiently large container with a lid
preparation
1. Preparing the fish
Pat the fish dry with some kitchen paper and cut into wide pieces.
Place a layer of sea salt in a sufficiently large container.
Place the cod fillets inside and cover generously with salt. The fish must be completely coated in salt.
Close the container with a lid and place it in the refrigerator.
The fillets should be left in the salt for 2-3 days (48-72 hours).
Tip: If you're using a whole fish, you should scale, gut, and remove the head beforehand. It's best to leave the skin on, as it helps with drying.
2. Drying in an air fryer
Remove excess salt from the fillets and rinse briefly with water.
Place the cod fillets in the air fryer and dry them at 60°C for approximately 12-18 hours using the dehydrating function. Important: Do not use the normal air fryer function.
3. Checking the degree of dryness
The fish should be firm and dry after drying. No more liquid should be seeping out. If the fish is still too soft, you can let it dry for a few more hours. I reduced the temperature to 40 degrees Celsius at the end. The drying time also depends on the thickness of the fillet.
4. Storage
If you want to store the fish for longer, you can keep it in an airtight container or bag. Make sure it's completely dry and stored in a cool, dark place. Freezing the saltfish is the best option.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Saltfish
Which types of fish are suitable for saltfish?
Cod: The traditional choice, as the flesh is firm and lends itself well to salting. Snapper: An alternative with a more intense flavor. Herring: Used less frequently, but can provide a stronger flavor.
Where can you get the right fish?
Fresh cod can be found in well-stocked supermarkets or fishmongers, especially in larger cities. Look for sustainable sources to protect the environment.
What is the difference between saltfish and dried fish?
Saltfish is salted and dried fish, while other dried fish are often preserved without salt.
Can I make saltfish with any fish?
Cod is best, but snapper or herring are also possible.
How long does homemade saltfish keep?
Properly dried saltfish can be stored for several months if it is airtight and kept cool.
Do I need to soak the saltfish before cooking it?
Yes, before using it in recipes like ackee and saltfish, you should soak the fish overnight in water, changing the water several times. Additionally, after soaking, the saltfish is boiled in water for about 20 minutes.
Can I dry saltfish in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, set the oven to 60°C with the door slightly open to allow the moisture to escape.
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