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Delicious Jamaican Mackerel Rundown: A Taste of Tradition

by | Dec 31, 2024 | Fish, Recipes | 0 comments

Cooking in the garden and ready to bring another Jamaican favorite to life! Mackerel Rundown is more than just a dish—it’s comfort, tradition, and a little taste of home.

Picture this: tender, salted mackerel simmering in rich coconut milk, perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs, spices, and just the right amount of Scotch bonnet heat. Pair it with green bananas, dumplings, or a slice of yam, and you’ve got a meal that’s as hearty as it is flavorful.

Let’s celebrate the soul of Jamaican cooking together with this timeless classic.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create the beloved Mackerel Rundown just the way Grandma used to make it. Every detail matters, from cracking open fresh coconuts and extracting their rich milk to perfectly seasoning the mackerel. Along the way, I’ll share personal stories, tips, and tricks to ensure your dish is packed with authentic Jamaican flavor.

We’ll also talk about the unique blend of ingredients that give this dish its signature taste—one that holds its own alongside iconic dishes like Ackee and Saltfish. Get ready to bring the essence of Jamaica into your kitchen!

Key ingredients you’ll need include:

  • Mackerel: Whether fresh or salted, it’s the heart of the dish.
  • Coconut: Freshly grated for an authentic, creamy base.
  • Vegetables: Onions, tomatoes, and peppers add layers of flavor.
  • Seasonings: Fresh thyme, scallions, and the bold Scotch bonnet pepper bring the dish to life.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a recipe and a new appreciation for Mackerel Rundown and its cultural significance in Jamaican cuisine. Gather your ingredients, set the stage, and bring a taste of Jamaica to your table!

When cooking traditional Jamaican Mackerel Rundown, plan for a total cooking time of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, including boiling and simmering in coconut milk.

Ingredients for Mackerel Rundown

  • 2-3 pieces of salted mackerel (or fresh mackerel, depending on preference)
  • 1 coconut (for the coconut milk)
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2-3 tomatoes (chopped)
  • 2-3 Scotch bonnet peppers (whole or sliced, depending on your spice tolerance)
  • 1 bunch of scallions (chopped)
  • Fresh thyme (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

How to Prepare Mackerel Rundown

Let’s bring this dish to life with the first essential step:

Start by cracking open your coconut to reveal its rich, creamy meat.

Breaking open coconut for fresh milk

Grate the coconut finely, then combine it with warm water to extract the fresh coconut milk. Strain the mixture to separate the milk from the pulp, and you’ve got the heart of our Mackerel Rundown—a rich, authentic base that’s full of flavor.

This homemade touch makes all the difference and sets the stage for the vibrant flavors.

Grating coconut for milk

If you’re using salted mackerel, start by boiling it for a few minutes to draw out the excess salt—this step is essential to balance the flavors in the dish. Once boiled, drain the water, allow the fish to cool slightly, and remove any large bones. Set the mackerel aside as we prepare the rich base for the rundown.

In a separate pot, pour in your fresh coconut milk and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook down until it thickens into a luscious, custard-like consistency. This creamy base is the foundation of the dish.

Add your chopped onions, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant peppers to the pot. Stir them in, allowing their flavors to blend beautifully with the thickened coconut milk. This colorful mix is where the magic begins!

Simmering coconut milk with vegetables

Finally, gently place the mackerel into the pot, nestling it among the rich coconut milk and aromatic spices. Allow it to simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, giving the fish time to soak up all those bold, delightful flavors. The creamy coconut milk will infuse the mackerel, creating a perfectly balanced dish where the flavors harmonize beautifully. Stir occasionally but carefully to keep the mackerel intact. In just a few minutes, your Mackerel Rundown will be ready to serve—a dish that’s comforting and bursting with authentic Jamaican essence!

Adding mackerel to the coconut mixture

As the dish cooks, your kitchen will come alive with the enticing aromas of coconut, simmering vegetables, and seasoned mackerel. The scent wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, making it nearly impossible not to sneak a taste. The blend of creamy coconut, vibrant vegetables, and tender mackerel creates a symphony of flavors that lingers on your palate—a true masterpiece of Jamaican cooking that’s as comforting as it is unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

Mackerel Rundown is even better when paired with traditional Jamaican sides that highlight and balance its rich, savory flavors. Here are some favorites to round out your meal:

  • Boiled Green Bananas: These tender and mildly sweet bananas are perfect for soaking up the coconut-infused sauce.
  • Dumplings: Whether you prefer boiled or fried dumplings (Johnny cakes), they add a hearty element to the dish.
  • Festival: These lightly sweet fried dumplings bring a delightful contrast to the savory mackerel.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Kale, carrots, cabbage, or callaloo offer a fresh and healthy balance to the richness of the rundown.
  • Plantains: Fried ripe plantains bring a natural sweetness, while boiled green plantains offer a more subtle, starchy complement.
  • Rice: Fluffy white rice serves as a perfect base, soaking up every drop of the flavorful coconut sauce.

Serving Mackerel Rundown with sides

So, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, Mackerel Rundown is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of tradition and love. Every bite carries the essence of Jamaican culture, from the fresh coconut milk to the carefully balanced spices. Enjoy the warmth, share the joy, and savor the memories created with every plate. Don’t forget to share your stories and take on this classic dish with friends and family. Here’s to good food, good company, and the magic of homemade cooking!

Written By D W

About the Author

Hello, I’m Donna, your kitchen companion and green-thumbed friend! My roots are in Jamaica, where I grew up savoring the vibrant flavors of traditional dishes and learning the art of gardening from my family. Now, I’m bringing those cherished memories and recipes to life, alongside practical gardening tips, to inspire your journey in creating delicious meals and cultivating fresh produce. Let’s celebrate the joy of food, the magic of the garden, and the warmth of sharing it all with loved ones!

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