Antiguan Bake and Shark is a quintessential Caribbean street food that epitomizes the vibrant flavors of Antigua. This beloved dish features crispy, golden-brown fried dough, known as "bake," filled with tender, seasoned shark fillets. Traditionally served as a savory sandwich, it is enhanced with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces, making it a true reflection of Antigua's rich culinary heritage and seafood traditions.
Ingredients:
For the Shark:
- 1 lb fresh shark fillets, cleaned and cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bake (Bread):
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water (approximately)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Chopped cilantro or parsley
- Hot sauce (optional)
- Tamarind sauce or your favorite condiments
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shark: a. In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. b. Coat the shark fillets with the dry mixture, ensuring they are well covered. c. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. d. Fry the shark strips until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Bake: a. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. b. Gradually add water and knead until a soft, elastic dough forms. c. Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions and roll each into a flat, oval shape. d. In a separate skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. e. Fry the dough ovals until they puff up and turn golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Bake and Shark: a. Take a piece of fried bake and cut it open horizontally, creating a pocket. b. Fill the pocket with a few pieces of fried shark. c. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and chopped cilantro or parsley. d. Drizzle with hot sauce if you like it spicy and add tamarind sauce or your favorite condiments.
4. Serve and Enjoy: a. Serve your Antigua Bake and Shark immediately, allowing the flavors to meld together. b. Encourage your guests to customize their toppings and savor the delightful combination of crispy shark and fluffy bake.
Get ready for a taste of the Caribbean that will transport you to the sunny shores of Antigua!
Nutritional Values
1. Shark (per 100g):
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Benefits:
- Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining muscle mass.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote heart health and contribute to brain function.
2. All-Purpose Flour (per cup - 125g):
- Calories: 440
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 95g
- Fiber: 3g
Benefits:
- Carbohydrates: A primary source of energy for the body.
- Protein: Contributes to muscle development and repair.
3. Cornmeal (per cup - 138g):
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 108g
- Fiber: 9g
Benefits:
- Dietary Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
4. Vegetable Oil (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Benefits:
- Healthy Fats: Contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
5. Tomatoes (per medium-sized tomato - 182g):
- Calories: 30
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Benefits:
- Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and helps the body absorb iron.
- Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant associated with various health benefits.
6. Lettuce (per cup shredded - ~36g):
- Calories: 5
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Benefits:
- Vitamins A and K: Important for vision, skin health, and blood clotting.
- Fiber: Supports digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
7. Cucumbers (per medium-sized cucumber - 301g):
- Calories: 45
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2.5g
Benefits:
- Hydration: Cucumbers have a high water content, helping to keep the body hydrated.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Provide nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.
8. Baking Powder (per teaspoon):
- Calories: 0
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
Benefits:
- Leavening Agent: Creates a light and fluffy texture in baked goods.
- Neutralizes Acidity: Helps balance the pH levels in recipes.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and exact quantities used in your recipe. If you have specific quantities in mind, I can provide more accurate nutritional information.
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