Poisson Braisé Sauce Pistache
Grilled or baked fish coated in a flavorful peanut sauce (sauce pistache). This dish is a popular choice for celebrations and everyday meals, showcasing Cameroon's love for rich, savory flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole fish(e.g., tilapia, sea bream, cleaned and scaled)
- 200 g Peanut butter(smooth or crunchy, unsweetened)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(pureed or finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, minced)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 300 ml Water
- 1 optional Stock cube
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(ground)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Score the sides of the fish with a sharp knife. Rub with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Scoring helps the fish cook evenly and absorb flavors. - 2
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, chopped onion, pureed tomatoes, minced garlic, grated ginger, minced scotch bonnet (if using), and stock cube (if using).
💡 Tip: Ensure peanut butter is smooth for a creamy sauce. - 3
Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the peanut butter mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents the peanut butter from burning. - 4
Gradually whisk in the water until you achieve a smooth, sauce-like consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer.
💡 Tip: Add water slowly to avoid lumps. - 5
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 6
Preheat your grill or oven to 200°C (400°F).
💡 Tip: Ensure the grill/oven is hot before cooking fish. - 7
Place the seasoned fish on a baking sheet or grill rack. Brush generously with some of the peanut sauce.
💡 Tip: Ensure fish is well-coated with sauce. - 8
Bake or grill the fish for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky. Baste with more sauce halfway through cooking.
💡 Tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the fish. - 9
Serve the grilled fish hot, generously topped with the remaining peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
💡 Tip: This dish is excellent with boiled plantains or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can also pan-fry the fish until golden brown before adding it to the simmering sauce.
- ✓For a spicier sauce, add more scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
- ✓If you prefer a richer sauce, use less water.
- ✓Ensure you use unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use fish fillets instead of whole fish.
- Add chopped bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra texture and nutrients.