Red Snapper: The most popular fish used for escovitch is whole red snapper or kingfish but you can use any other firm-fleshed fish.
Onions & bell peppers: You’ll need both sweet bell peppers and onions for this recipe. Use colorful bell peppers for the presentation.
Carrots: Escovitch wouldn’t be the same without carrots because they bring a natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Scotch bonnet peppers: These peppers are essential for Jamaican escovitch to give it its characteristic heat. If you can’t find them, you can use habanero peppers or jalapeño peppers. If heat is not your jam then you can exclude the seeds.
Vinegar and Sugar: White vinegar and sugar combo is a match made in heaven for Escovitch Sauce.
Pimiento Berries: Pimiento berries, also known as whole allspice, are a key ingredient that brings tons of flavor in escovitch sauce.
Fresh Thyme: This fragrant herb used fresh for this recipe is best but dried time works
Orange Juice: Just a splash of orange juice adds some bold yet subtle acidity to the sauce, a total game changer, and a family secret How To Make Escovitch Fish
How to Make Escovitch Sauce Link
To Prepare The Fried Fish
Once you have your fish, you will need to clean and season it. Jamaicans usually season their fish with a few spices
After seasoning the fish, it is fried until it is crispy and golden brown. Orange Juice: Just a splash of orange juice adds some bold yet subtle acidity to the sauce, a total game changer, and a family secret.
Next, the fish is placed in a marinade made with vinegar, sweet pepper, onions, scotch bonnet, and more. The marinade is left to soak into the fish for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and create a delicious taste.
When it is time to serve the Jamaican Escovitch Fish, it is usually garnished with slices of onions, peppers, and carrots. This adds a beautiful pop of color to the dish and enhances the flavors.
You can make escovitch fish in 45 minutes and serve immediately but for best results aka a life-changing bite, allow the fish to sit in the escovitch sauce overnight to soak up all the flavors.
Jamaican Escovitch Fish is a staple in Caribbean cuisine, known for its flavorful and zesty profile. To enhance your cooking skills, consider sourcing the freshest ingredients, including local fish and organic vegetables. For an authentic taste, utilizing fresh scotch bonnet peppers is crucial, as they contribute not only heat but also depth. When preparing the fish, ensure to clean and gut it properly. The marination process is key; allowing the fish to soak in the escovitch sauce overnight not only improves the flavor, it also keeps the fish moist when cooked. Additionally, the combination of vinegar and sugar in the marinade balances the dish’s sharpness and sweetness, creating an unforgettable taste. For those new to escovitch fish, starting with more commonly available white fish can be a great alternative if you can't find red snapper. Remember, colorful bell peppers not only enhance presentation but also add sweetness, making them a perfect match for the dish. This dish not only serves as a main course but can also be enjoyed cold, making it versatile for large gatherings or meal prep. As you explore this traditional recipe, consider experimenting with side dishes like rice and peas, which complement the spicy flavors of the escovitch. With practice and adherence to these guidelines, your Jamaican Escovitch Fish will become a flavorful centerpiece at any dining experience.
