Oil Down is a hearty Caribbean stew originating from Trinidad and Tobago. It’s characterized by its delicious and flavorful blend of local vegetables, meat, and various spices cooked in oil to impart richness. This versatile dish can include ingredients like pumpkin, dasheen (a type of taro), breadfruit, cassava, callaloo (a leafy vegetable), and salted pork or smoked herring for protein. The cooking process involves layering the ingredients with oil and hot pepper sauce, which creates a unique blend of flavors that permeates each bite. Here’s a simplified version of a traditional Oil Down recipe:
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork butt or salted pork, cut into chunks
– 1 lb smoked herring or salt fish, chopped into small pieces
– 3 medium green plantains, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and diced
– 2 medium dasheens (Taro), peeled and sliced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 3 large callaloo leaves, chopped (or spinach or kale)
– 1 small head cabbage, shredded
– 4 green onions, chopped
– 1 lb breadfruit, peeled, sliced, and soaked in salt water for 1 hour
– Salt to taste
– Hot pepper sauce to taste (optional)
– Oil for cooking, such as coconut or vegetable oil
Preparation:
1. In a large pot over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom with at least 1/4 inch of depth. Allow it to warm up without smoking.
2. Add pork and salt fish, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned or cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked meat into a bowl.
3. Fry the remaining ingredients, one at a time, ensuring each layer is fully coated in oil. Cook over medium heat for a few minutes before adding the next layer. Be sure to drain excess oil between layers if necessary.
4. Continue layering and frying all of the ingredients until the Oil Down has been prepared.
5. Season with salt and hot pepper sauce (optional) according to taste preference. Add the cooked meat from step 2 back into the stew along with any accumulated juices.
6. Simmer the Oil Down for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve immediately with a generous helping of your favorite side dishes such as rice, dumplings, or fried breadfruit. Enjoy!
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