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Bahamian Boiled Fish Recipe

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3.9 from 38 reviews

Bahamian Boiled Fish is a traditional Caribbean dish featuring tender fish boiled with aromatic herbs, fresh lime juice, and spicy heat from scotch bonnet peppers. This flavorful and wholesome meal is enriched with potatoes and fresh thyme, creating a perfect balance of citrus, spice, and earthiness. Simple to prepare and deeply comforting, it represents the vibrant culinary heritage of the Bahamas.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fish (preferably firm white fish like snapper or grouper)
  • Juice of 3-6 limes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Caribbean-style or preferred brand)
  • 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 hot pepper, such as scotch bonnet, whole or sliced
  • 7-8 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1.5 teaspoons dried thyme
  • Water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water. Cut into serving-size pieces if whole. Place the fish in a large pot suitable for boiling.
  2. Add Flavorings: Squeeze the juice of 3-6 limes over the fish according to your taste preference. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Add the sliced onion, whole or sliced scotch bonnet pepper, and fresh thyme sprigs to the pot.
  3. Add Potatoes and Water: Add the peeled and chunked potatoes into the pot. Pour enough water to cover all ingredients completely, ensuring everything is submerged for even cooking.
  4. Boil the Fish: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low and let simmer gently for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the potatoes are tender.
  5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the broth and adjust salt, pepper, or hot sauce if needed. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper if left whole to avoid over-spicing. Serve the boiled fish and potatoes hot along with some of the aromatic broth.

Notes

  • The hot pepper can be left whole during cooking to impart a moderate heat without overwhelming the dish; remove before serving if desired.
  • Use firm white fish for best results to prevent disintegration during boiling.
  • Lime juice adds brightness and helps tenderize the fish—adjust amount based on preference.
  • This dish is naturally gluten free and can be adapted for various dietary preferences.
  • Serve with traditional sides like steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/bahamian-boiled-fish-recipe/