Delicious Escovitch Fish Recipe: A Taste of the Caribbean

RECIPES

1/24/20262 min read

Escovitch Fish

Escovitch fish is a vibrant dish from the Caribbean, particularly popular in Jamaica. It features fried fish topped with a tangy pickled vegetable sauce. This delicious and easy-to-make recipe gives you a taste of the tropical seas and the authentic flavors of the island. Not only is the escovitch fish a feast for the eyes, but it also tantalizes the taste buds with its bold flavors and aromas.

Ingredients Needed

For this escovitch fish recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 whole fish (snapper or any firm white fish)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Vegetable oil for frying

  • 1 onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (red and yellow for color)

  • 2-3 carrots, julienned

  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for spice)

  • 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)

  • 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

How to Prepare Escovitch Fish

Follow these steps to prepare your escovitch fish:

  1. Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. Next, season them with salt and pepper, making sure the flavors penetrate the cavity of the fish.

  2. Dust the fish with flour and shake off any excess. This will create a crispy coating when fried.

  3. In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the fish into the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

  4. In a separate pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender.

  5. Add the vinegar, Scotch bonnet pepper, allspice, and sugar to the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to create the pickling liquid.

  6. Once the pickling liquid is ready, pour it generously over the fried fish. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve your escovitch fish hot, garnished with additional fresh vegetables if desired. Enjoy a delightful taste of the Caribbean!