1cupof cooked saltfish90g (see post for homemade recipe)
1small onionchopped
3scallionchopped
2garlic clovesminced
1large tomatochopped
4sprigs of thymestem removed or 1/1 tablespoon dried
1teaspoonblack pepper
½teaspoonall purpose seasoningoptional, see post for recipe
2tablespoonof dairy free butter
2tablespoonof olive oilor coconut oil
Instructions
Pour the cornmeal in a bowl/jug and mix together with the water to form a liquid paste then set aside.
On medium heat, use a medium sized pot and add olive oil then proceed to saute the onion, scallion and garlic until soft and translucent.
Now add the tomato, saltfish, thyme, all purpose seasoning, black pepper and continue cook for 2 minutes.
Pour in the coconut milk and add the dairy free butter.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and let the coconut milk heat up for 2 minutes
Slowly pour the cornmeal paste/mixture into the pot while stirring vigorously with the other hand until it starts to thicken (it should look like a milky/porridge consistency to begin with)
Cover the pot with a lid and let it steam/cook for a total of 30 minutes, check and gently stir (3-4 turns) every 10 minutes. Around the 25 minute mark is where you want to really focus on increasing the heat to medium-high and stirring to bring the cornmeal together. Stir, fold and cut the turn cornmeal as it thickens. It should pull away from the sides of the pot with ease
Serve accordingly. as the cornmeal cools down it separates and scrambles very easily.
Notes
I personally recommend using the coarse textured cornmeal to make this recipe.
Make sure to follow the instructions to the TEE, especially it's your first time making the recipe, do not increase the heat (unless stated) or try to hasten the cooking process or you run the risk of ruining the dish.
Make sure the heat is reduced when pouring the cornmeal mixture to avoid lumps and the cornmeal from thickening too quickly. If it thickens too fast it won't cook properly.
Turn cornmeal should be dense and scrambles/breaks apart especially as it cools.
Coarse cornmeal takes slightly longer then it's finer counterpart to cook.
It's best to serve immediately or warm at best
Add a splash of water if you intend to reheat first of all.