Saltfish fritters
Saltfish fritters, also known as 'stamp and go' in Jamaica or 'accra' in other Caribbean regions, are savory, deep-fried snacks made from a batter of salted codfish, flour, and seasonings. The fish is typically soaked to remove excess salt, then flaked and mixed with onions, scallions, peppers, and spices before being fried into golden, crispy patties. This dish is a beloved staple across the Caribbean, with variations found in countries like Jamaica, Trinidad, and Barbados.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These fritters are high in protein due to the saltfish, but also contain significant carbohydrates from the flour and fat from frying, making them a calorie-dense snack. A typical serving of two to three fritters provides around 300-400 calories, along with notable amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus from the fish.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Selenium | 35 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.8 mcg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Zinc | 2 mg |
Per 4 fritters (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Saltfish fritters are a culinary legacy of the Atlantic triangular trade, where salted cod was shipped from the North Atlantic to the Caribbean as a cheap protein source for enslaved populations. Nutritionally, they offer a unique balance of preserved fish protein and quick energy from the batter, making them a historically practical and sustaining food.
