Serious About Local Fish

Those serious about island cooking are serious about local fish. To meet some of the best local fishermen in BVI, head to one of the many fishing events held around the islands. The Thanksgiving Game Fish Challenge takes place on the North Sound on the weekend after Thanksgiving Day and produces wahoo, tuna, and kingfish. Likewise, the Spanish Town Fisherman’s Jamboree in Spanish Town serves as an annual celebration of fishing.  In the meantime, try on this local BVI recipe for size:

BVI SALT FISH CAKE
Ingredients:
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 cup onions, finely chopped
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
Salt to taste
1 egg lightly beaten
¾ cup milk
1 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp eschalots, finely chopped
½ lb, salted cod fish, cooked and flaked
1 large fresh hot pepper, finely chopped

Locals Do It Like This:
In a heavy frying pan, heat the oil and sauté the onions until they are just wilted. Place flour, baking powder, and salt in bowl. Make a well in the center of the bowl and pour in the egg, butter, and milk. Mix together lightly, and then add the onions, eschalot, salted cod fish, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Drop by tbsp into hot oil, but do not crowd them in the pan.