Micha de Peixe com Banana Verde
A hearty and flavorful fish stew made with green bananas, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Cape Verdean spices. It's a comforting and traditional dish often enjoyed on the islands.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as sea bass or grouper, cut into chunks)
- 3 medium Green bananas(peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(diced, or 1 can (14.5 oz))
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 0.5 cup Cilantro(chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cups Fish broth or water
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 optional Piri-piri pepper or chili flakes(to taste, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and piri-piri pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
- 4
Add the green banana pieces and fish broth (or water). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the bananas are tender but not mushy.
- 5
Gently add the fish chunks to the pot. Simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- 6
Stir in most of the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the bananas are firm and green; overripe bananas will become too mushy.
- ✓Adjust the amount of piri-piri or chili flakes to your preferred level of spice.
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well during cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like sweet potato or cassava along with the green bananas.
- For a richer flavor, a splash of white wine can be added with the broth.
- Some recipes include a small amount of ground cumin for added depth.