How to Make Jamaican Rundown with Salted Mackerel

A traditional Jamaican meal featuring boiled dumplings, ripe plantain, green banana, and salted mackerel in coconut rundown, served on a white ceramic plate with a woven-patterned rim. The dish is arranged on a marbled countertop with soft, natural lighting highlighting its textures and colors

Jamaican Rundown is a classic dish that's beloved across the island. The combination of salted mackerel, rich coconut milk, and seasoning creates a delightful meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. This recipe guides you through making the perfect rundown, served with traditional sides like boiled green bananas and dumplings. Enjoy with Jamaican apple juice

Ingredients for Jamaican Rundown

For the Rundown:

  • 2 dried coconuts (the drier, the better)

  • 1/2 lb. salted mackerel (adjust based on servings)

  • 1 stalk scallion

  • 1 hot pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

  • 1/2 large onion

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 2 cups water (for blending the coconut)

  • Boiling water (for soaking and rinsing mackerel)

For the Sides:

  • Boiled green bananas

  • Dumplings (traditional flour dumplings)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Mackerel

Start by removing the salt from the salted mackerel. Soak the mackerel overnight in water to help extract the salt. The next morning, rinse the mackerel thoroughly, pour boiling water over it, and clean the inside by removing any black lining or other impurities. You can also boil the mackerel for about 5 minutes to speed up the salt removal process. Once cleaned, slice the mackerel into pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Milk

Remove the flesh from the two dried coconuts. Blend the coconut meat with 2 cups of water until smooth. Strain the coconut mixture into a pot to extract the milk.

Step 3: Cook the Rundown

Wash one stalk of scallion, one hot pepper, and half of a large onion. Chop them finely, and add them to the pot with the coconut milk. Place the pot on medium heat, uncovered, to avoid spilling. Let it simmer until the coconut milk reduces to about half its volume, intensifying the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Salted Mackerel

Once the coconut milk has reduced, add the sliced salted mackerel to the pot. Season with 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and let the mixture continue to cook until the milk has thickened into a custard-like consistency, and oil begins to surface.

Step 5: Serve

Once the rundown is ready, turn off the heat and serve it hot with boiled green bananas and dumplings for a traditional Jamaican meal experience.

Tips for the Perfect Rundown

  • Coconut Milk: The key to a creamy and rich rundown is using dried coconut. Fresh coconut can also be used, but it won’t yield the same creamy custard-like texture.

  • Salted Mackerel: Adjust the amount of mackerel depending on how many people you’re serving. For larger servings, use 1 pound or more of mackerel and increase the amount of coconut milk.

  • Boiling the Mackerel: If you prefer to remove more salt from the mackerel, boiling it for 5 minutes is a great way to do so.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this savory rundown with boiled green bananas and traditional dumplings for an authentic Jamaican feast.

  • For an added flavor boost, you can include a side of steamed vegetables or fried plantains.

FAQ:

1. Can I use canned coconut milk?
While fresh coconut milk is ideal, canned coconut milk can be used in a pinch. However, it won’t be as rich or custardy as the homemade version.

2. Can I substitute the salted mackerel?
Yes, you can use salted fish or other salted meats, but the flavor profile may differ slightly.

3. How long does the rundown last in the fridge?
Rundown can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving


 

Popular Posts

Welcome to The Jamaican Culture

Image
  At the market You ever notice how Jamaica greets you before you even open your eyes? The rooster crowing like him have election to win. The smell of fried dumpling drifting through the window. Somebody in the lane already calling out, 'Mi have sweet mango, come look!' That’s the Jamaica I know, and the Jamaica I’m here to share. This space is for the real stories —the high points and the pressure points. The ones you hear in the market while you waiting for your change, and the ones that make you shake your head at the latest headline. The ones your grandmother tell you in Patois so rich, you can taste the history in every word. Here, you’ll find the full spectrum of the rock, including: News, Sports & Current Affairs: The latest happenings, analyzed with a yard perspective. Recipes with the story behind them: Because food without history is just a plate. Satire and Humor: Turning bureaucracy, politics, and everyday absurdities into something we can laugh at together. ...
Read more

Health Benefits of June Plum: The Jamaican Superfruit You Need in Your Diet

Image
 The moment June plum season rolls around in Jamaica, excitement is in the air! This seemingly simple tropical fruit (also known as Golden Apple or Ambarella) is a true nutritional powerhouse, especially the highly prized, authentic Jamaican variety. If you've only had the agricultural type found in places like Florida, prepare to discover the real deal. Why the Traditional June Plum is Best Not all June plums are created equal. The taste of your juice is heavily dictated by the variety of the fruit you use. Here in Jamaica, we distinguish between two types: the more common agricultural variety and the  traditional June plum . It is this traditional type that offers the real, authentic flavor that June plum juice is famous for. Its vibrant, tangy, and sweet profile gives the juice the depth of flavor it truly deserves. A Powerhouse of Nutrients: Unlocking June Plum’s Health Benefits (H2) June plum is far more than just a refreshing treat; it is packed with essential vitamins a...
Read more

Jamaica Under Tropical Storm Watch: Melissa Becomes 13th Named Storm of 2025

Image
Tropical Storm Melissa: What You Need to Know  Jamaica is currently under a tropical storm watch as Melissa , the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, has emerged. This storm marks the first of the season to affect the Caribbean and poses a significant threat to several islands in the region, including Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. As Melissa continues to strengthen, forecasters predict it could become a hurricane later this week. Tropical Storm Watch: Impact on Jamaica  Jamaica, particularly its northeastern and southern parishes, is expected to experience heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds beginning late tomorrow and continuing into Thursday. While the storm is not expected to make direct landfall, its outer bands will bring severe weather conditions that could lead to localized flooding and possible disruptions. Expected Path of Tropical Storm Melissa  Forecasters predict that Melissa will turn to the northwest and ...
Read more