Not sure of this should be classified as a recipe or not, but I do know it’s affectionately known as “bache” or bachelor food among the people I know. “Bache” usually refers to any food that can be cooked (or not) in under 5 minutes… basically something fast. As a youth this was the norm as part of Good Friday lunch. It’s true that we had access to tons of fresh fish being that we lived on islands, but somehow that salmon that came in a can still made it’s way onto our menu. You either had it on rice or with lovely ground provisions, like yam, eddoes and dasheen. My dad used to top his with olive oil, something only in my adult life did I learn to appreciate.
Get past the cat-food like appearance and the fact that it comes from a can, let’s give canned salmon a chance.
You’ll need…
1 can Salmon (Sockeye, Pink or Tea Rose Keta Salmon) 213g / 7.5 oz
dash of salt
dash of black pepper
1 medium tomato
1 clove garlic
1 medium onion
1 teaspoon ketchup
1 green onion (scallion)
hot pepper (optional)
3 sprigs of cilantro or 1 leaf of shado beni. (you may also use 1/4 teaspoon green seasoning mix)
Open the can of salmon and place in a pan over medium heat.
With a spoon or fork, break the salmon chunk in pieces (try not to crush)
Wash and slice the tomato, green onion, cilantro, garlic and onion. All the ingredients should now be added to the pot with the salmon chunks.
Gently stir everything together, including the ketchup, black pepper and salt. I usually don’t use salt, but I’m sure you may like it with a bit of salt. Remember, you can add salt last if it’s required also.
Cover and let simmer for about 5 minutes, or until all the ingredients get a chance to add their touch to the dish.
Didn’t I say this was a “bache” recipe… you’re done. Serve over rice, ground provisions or with bread.
I’ve also seen my mom use a bit of olive oil in the pan, then add the onion etc to cook a bit first and then add the salmon last. But I try not to use oil or salt, as the fish is already fatty and it’s usually packed in salt during the canning process.
Be sure to share this with your friends and leave me your comments below. i’d love the hear from you.