When was the last time you tasted ackee?

This exotic fruit has a bright red exterior and a creamy yellow interior.

It was introduced to Jamaica from West Africa in the 18th century.

It's a key ingredient in Jamaica's national dish, ackee and saltfish. 

Here are seven ways to enjoy ackee like a Jamaican.

Ackee and saltfish

If you enjoy Jamaica's national dish, ackee and saltfish, try to prepare it.

To begin, boil the ackee until it's tender.

You should also boil the saltfish to reduce the saltiness. 

Then gently fold the ackee into a sautéed mix of salted codfish, onions, tomatoes, sweet peppers, and spices.

Plate the ackee and saltfish with fried or boiled dumplings, fried plantains, or breadfruit.

Ackee and callaloo

Another popular way to enjoy ackee is with callaloo, a leafy green vegetable.

Boil the ackee until soft, then mix it with sautéed callaloo, onions, tomatoes, and spices.

This combination is a nutritious option, perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Ackee and cornpork

You should try ackee and cornpork.

Cornpork is salt-cured pork.

It is first boiled to remove excess salt, then sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

Add the boiled ackee to the mixture, folding it in gently.

The flavor of cornpork pairs well with the creamy texture of ackee.

Ackee patties

The ackee patty is popular among Rastafarians in Jamaica.  

Prepare a dough with flour, butter, and water, then fill it with a mixture of boiled ackee, onions, and spices.

Bake until golden brown.

Ackee salad

Try an ackee salad.

Combine boiled ackee with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers.

Dress it with a light vinaigrette made from lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of scotch bonnet pepper for a zesty kick.

Ackee stir fry

Sauté your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas, in a hot pan with garlic and ginger.

Add the boiled ackee last, stirring gently to avoid breaking it up too much.

Serve your ackee stir fry over steamed rice or noodles.

Ackee fritters

Ackee fritters are perfect appetizers. 

Create a batter with flour, baking powder, and spices, then fold in boiled ackee.

Fry spoonfuls of the batter until golden and crispy.

Best ackee and saltfish in Jamaica

You're never too far away from authentic Jamaican food spots on the island.

The most popular spots in Jamaica to try mouthwatering plates of ackee and saltfish are Wilkies Cuisine Seafood Restaurant in Port Antonio, Mandeville Hotel in Mandeville, Pablo's Restaurant in Negril, Holland Bamboo Restaurant in Middle Quarters, and Sonia's Homestyle Cooking & Natural Juices in Kingston.