Oil Down – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Grenada Region / Locale: Grenadian Servings: Serves 6
Grenada Region / Locale: Grenadian Servings: Serves 6Oil Down is Grenada’s national dish, a delectable one-pot meal that celebrates the island’s rich culinary heritage. Traditionally made with salted meat, chicken, coconut milk, turmeric, and a variety of local vegetables, the dish is simmered to perfection to create a harmonious blend of flavors. This comforting and hearty dish gets its name from the coconut oil released during cooking – a testament to its rich and irresistible taste.
Ingredients
- chicken – 1 kg / 2.2 lbs, cut into pieces
- salted meat (like pigtail or salt beef) – 500 g / 1.1 lbs
- coconut milk – 2 cups / 480 ml
- green bananas – 4, peeled and halved
- breadfruit – 1 large, peeled and cut into wedges
- carrots – 2 large, sliced
- callaloo leaves – a bunch, roughly chopped
- onion – 1 large, chopped
- garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- thyme – 3 sprigs
- turmeric – 1 tsp
- black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- salt – to taste
Instructions
- Rinse salted meat thoroughly and boil for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat a little oil and brown the chicken pieces. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, turmeric, and thyme until fragrant.
- Add coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Layer the pot with breadfruit pieces, green bananas, and carrots.
- Return chicken and salted meat to the pot. Cover with callaloo leaves.
- Season with black pepper and salt. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the dish is infused with flavors.
- Serve hot, ensuring each plate has a variety of the ingredients.
Substitutions
- salted meat -> smoked bacon or ham
- callaloo leaves -> spinach or Swiss chard
- breadfruit -> potatoes or taro
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add fresh ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
- Incorporate bell peppers for added color and sweetness.
- Marinate chicken with lime and herbs for deeper flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
