What Jamaican appetizer of fried saltfish fritters is known as “stamp and go”?

Jamaican fried saltfish fritters are known as “stamp and go.”

Stamp and go are small savory fritters made from a batter containing salted cod, flour, herbs, peppers, and seasonings. The mixture is spooned into hot oil and fried until the outside is crisp and golden. They are commonly served as a breakfast item, snack, appetizer, or party food.

The unusual name is often explained as a reference to a quick command used by British naval officers: “Stamp and go!” The phrase allegedly encouraged sailors to move quickly, matching the fritters’ reputation as a fast food. This explanation is widely repeated, although the dish’s exact naming history is less firmly documented than its ingredients.

Stamp and go should not be confused with Jamaican festival, a sweetish fried cornmeal dumpling, or bammy, a cassava flatbread. It is also different from Barbadian fish cakes, which are a separate Caribbean preparation even though both commonly use salted fish.