Caldou Poisson
Caldou Poisson is a vibrant and flavorful fish stew from Senegal, characterized by its use of palm oil, a medley of vegetables, and a tangy lime sauce. It's a delightful representation of coastal Senegalese cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Firm white fish fillets(such as sea bass, snapper, or grouper, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 0.5 cup Palm oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 200 g Okra(fresh or frozen, trimmed and sliced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 medium Sweet potato(peeled and cubed)
- 1 small Eggplant(sliced)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(pierced or finely chopped (optional))
- 4 cups Water or fish broth
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 large Lime(juiced, for serving)
- 0.25 cup Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish pieces with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the palm oil over medium-high heat. Sear the fish pieces for about 2 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove the fish and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 4
Add the okra, carrots, sweet potato, eggplant, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- 5
Pour in the water or fish broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- 6
Gently return the seared fish pieces to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 7
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, drizzled with fresh lime juice and garnished with chopped parsley. Traditionally served with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to Caldou is the balance of flavors from the palm oil, vegetables, and the final touch of lime.
- ✓Ensure your fish is firm and holds its shape during cooking.
- ✓If you don't have palm oil, you can use vegetable oil, but the authentic color and flavor will be slightly different.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like cabbage wedges or bell peppers.
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality fish broth instead of water.