Bake and Shark is a popular Trinidadian street food, featuring fried shark meat served in a fried dough called "bake." The dish is typically seasoned with herbs and spices, then fried until crispy. It is often served with various sauces and toppings such as tamarind, garlic sauce, and fresh vegetables. 

The origins of Bake and Shark can be traced back to the coastal regions of Trinidad and Tobago, where fishing communities would catch and prepare shark as a staple food. Over time, the dish evolved into a beloved street food sold at beachside stalls and food trucks across the islands. Today, Bake and Shark is a cultural icon, celebrated for its delicious flavors and vibrant culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb shark fillets, cut into strips

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp salt

- Water for dough

- Oil for frying

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, chopped onions, tamarind sauce, garlic sauce, hot sauce

Method:

- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water while stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead lightly, then cover and let rest for 10-15 minutes.

- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat.

- Roll out dough on a floured surface into circles or ovals, about 1/4 inch thick.

- Fry dough in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.

- Season shark fillets with salt and pepper.

- Fry shark fillets in the hot oil until cooked through and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

- To assemble, place fried shark fillets in the fried dough, then add desired toppings such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, chopped onions, and sauces.

- Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors of Bake and Shark!

Nutrition Value:

Shark Fillets (1 lb):

  - Calories: Approximately 360 kcal

  - Protein: Approximately 70g

  - Fat: Approximately 8g

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation, typically low

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on preparation, typically low

Benefits: Shark is a good source of high-quality protein and contains essential omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. It also provides vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 912 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 192g

  - Protein: Approximately 24g

  - Fat: Approximately 2g

  - Sodium: Approximately 24mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

Benefits: All-purpose flour provides carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein. However, it is not as nutrient-dense as whole grain flours.

Baking Powder (1 tsp):

  - Calories: Approximately 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.3g

  - Sodium: Approximately 500mg

Benefits: Baking powder is used as a leavening agent in baked goods, helping them rise. It contains sodium bicarbonate, which reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, giving baked goods a light and airy texture.

Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Sodium: Approximately 1,150mg

Benefits: Salt is primarily used for flavoring. However, excessive consumption of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. It's important to use salt in moderation.

Water for Dough:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Water is essential for hydrating the dough and helping it come together. It has no calories or nutrients but is crucial for overall health and bodily functions.

Oil for Frying:

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per tablespoon (varies based on type of oil)

  - Fat: Approximately 14g per tablespoon (varies based on type of oil)

Benefits: Oil provides fat for frying, which adds flavor and texture to the dish. However, frying can increase the calorie and fat content of foods, so it's important to use oil in moderation and choose healthier options like olive or avocado oil.

Optional Toppings:

  - Nutritional information varies depending on the specific toppings and quantities used. However, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and chopped onions are low in calories and provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Tamarind sauce, garlic sauce, and hot sauce may add flavor but can also contribute additional calories, sodium, and sugars, so it's important to use them sparingly.