Caldeirada de Peixe Guineense
A rich and flavorful fish stew, Caldeirada de Peixe Guineense is a staple in Guinea-Bissau, showcasing the country's abundant seafood. It's typically made with a variety of fish, simmered in a savory broth with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and seasoned with local spices, often finished with a touch of palm oil for depth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Mixed firm white fish fillets(such as snapper, grouper, or sea bass, cut into large chunks)
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Red bell peppers(seeded and sliced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned, crushed or diced)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 liter Water or Fish Stock
- 0.5 cup Palm oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 small Chili pepper (piri-piri or scotch bonnet)(finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat (optional))
- 1 tsp Thyme(dried)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley or cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the palm oil (or vegetable oil) in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and chopped chili pepper (if using) to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the sliced red bell peppers and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- 4
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color.
- 5
Pour in the water or fish stock and add the dried thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 6
Gently add the fish chunks to the simmering liquid, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Do not stir vigorously, as this can break up the fish.
- 7
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fish pieces.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the Caldeirada de Peixe Guineense into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve hot, typically with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a variety of firm white fish for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Avoid over-stirring the stew once the fish is added to prevent it from breaking apart.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili pepper according to your spice preference.
- ✓If palm oil is unavailable, a good quality vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like sliced carrots, potatoes, or okra to the stew.
- Include a can of coconut milk for a creamier broth.
- Add some shrimp or mussels along with the fish for a seafood medley.