Oil down: the national dish of Grenada
Faraway Worlds
Oil down is a flavorful stew made with a variety of ingredients including breadfruit, salted meat, and other vegetables. The stew is cooked in a rich and flavorful coconut milk broth that is infused with herbs and spices.
The name "oil down" comes from the fact that the coconut milk used in cooking creates an oily layer on the surface of the stew, which either absorbs into the ingredients or settles to the bottom of the cooking pot.
Oil down has been a part of Grenadian cuisine for many generations and this traditional Caribbean dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience new and exciting flavours. February is one of the best times to try it as this is when the tri-island state of Grenada celebrates its Independence from the United Kingdom. As a result, oil down is served by numerous restaurants in Grenada.
The preparation for oil down can be time intensive as you need to peel the breadfruit removing both the outer skin and the inner gut. Once this is completed and all the other ingredients are cleaned and chopped, the pot can then be left to simmer.
Here is how to make it for yourself. If you can't get
Ingredients
- 225g salt meat
- 1 large (2-3kg) breadfruit
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup chives (chopped)
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp tumeric
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 lime
- salt to taste
Directions
- 1Soak the salted meat in water overnight in water to reduce the saltiness
- 2Peel and core the breadfruit, then slice breadfruit into ½ inch pieces
- 3Clean the salted meat removing the outer layer of skin, then rub with a lime. Boil for about 10 minutes, then discard the cooking water.
- 4Put the salted meat, celery, chive, onions and garlic in a large pot.
- 5Pour in the coconut milk and add the turmeric and the curry.
- 6Place the slices of breadfruit into the pot. Cover and bring to a boil.
- 7Reduce the heat and simmer for about 50-60 minutes until the breadfruit is cooked.
- 8Once it's done, taste and add more coconut milk or salt if needed.
Thanks to the team at Around The Caribbean for sharing this recipe. Around the Caribbean is an online travel magazine dedicated to providing information about the Caribbean islands. This includes helpful and meaningful tips for individuals who want to relocate or vacation in the region.
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Last Updated 19 January 2023