Calulu de Peixe Seco
A flavorful and hearty stew made with dried fish, okra, palm oil, and a medley of vegetables, representing a staple in Bissau-Guinean cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried fish(such as barracuda or sea bass, rehydrated and flaked)
- 400 g Okra(fresh or frozen, sliced)
- 150 ml Palm oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped or crushed)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 small Chili peppers(finely chopped (optional, to taste))
- 500 ml Water or fish broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- a handful Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using dried fish, soak it in warm water for at least 30 minutes to rehydrate. Rinse thoroughly, remove any bones, and flake the flesh.
- 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they break down and form a sauce.
- 5
Add the flaked dried fish and the sliced okra to the pot. Stir well to combine with the tomato mixture.
- 6
Pour in the water or fish broth. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 7
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the dried fish.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Calulu is traditionally served with rice or fufu.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the dried fish is thoroughly rehydrated to avoid a tough texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓If you don't have palm oil, a neutral vegetable oil can be used, but it will alter the authentic flavor profile.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like spinach, sweet potatoes, or carrots.
- Substitute dried fish with fresh fish, though the flavor will be different.