Experience the authentic taste of the Caribbean with Breadfruit Oil Down, Grenada’s beloved national dish. This hearty one-pot meal combines velvety breadfruit, tender chicken, and the option of salted meat or fish, all simmered to perfection in rich, creamy coconut milk. Enhanced with bold aromatics like garlic, onion, chives, and parsley, this dish is elevated by the savory warmth of turmeric and the subtle punch of a whole Scotch bonnet pepper. Topped with leafy dasheen or spinach to seal in its signature layers of flavor, this slow-simmered masterpiece delivers a luscious, thick sauce that pairs beautifully with the Caribbean staples of green bananas and tender root vegetables. Perfect for sharing, this iconic comfort food is a flavorful journey to Grenada’s culinary heart!
If using salted meat or fish, soak it in cold water for 1-2 hours to remove excess salt. Drain and rinse before using.
Prepare the breadfruit by removing the skin and core, then cutting it into medium-sized wedges.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy pot over medium heat.
Sauté the onion, garlic, chives, and parsley until fragrant and slightly softened (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the chicken and salted meat/fish to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to brown the meat slightly.
Sprinkle the turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper over the meat, and stir to coat evenly.
Arrange the breadfruit wedges, carrots, and green bananas (if using) on top of the meat mixture.
Pour the coconut milk and water into the pot, ensuring the breadfruit is partially submerged in the liquid.
Place the whole pierced Scotch bonnet pepper on top of the breadfruit. Be careful not to break it unless you want the dish to be very spicy.
Cover the pot with dasheen or taro leaves to seal in the flavors. If dasheen leaves aren’t available, substitute with spinach or heavy leafy greens as a layer on top.
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the breadfruit is fork-tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, forming a thick, flavorful sauce.
Check occasionally and add a little more water if the mixture is too dry before the breadfruit is cooked.
Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving (unless your guests enjoy fiery heat).
Serve warm, spooning the breadfruit, meat, veggies, and sauce onto plates or bowls. Enjoy this Caribbean comfort food with family and friends!
Serving size | 4031.7 grams (4031.7g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 4982 |
Total Fat 203.80g | 261% |
Saturated Fat 55.90g | 280% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 30.90g | |
Cholesterol 733mg | 244% |
Sodium 27703mg | 1204% |
Total Carbohydrate 588.50g | 214% |
Dietary Fiber 97.10g | 347% |
Total Sugars 258.90g | |
Protein 233.20g | 466% |
Vitamin D 259IU | 1293% |
Calcium 687mg | 53% |
Iron 28mg | 154% |
Potassium 13127mg | 279% |
Source of Calories