Chambo Fish with Ndiwo
A classic Malawian dish featuring chambo fish (a type of tilapia from Lake Malawi) pan-fried and served with ndiwo, a relish made from various greens, tomatoes, and onions. It is traditionally accompanied by nsima, a staple maize porridge.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chambo fish fillets(or tilapia fillets)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour(for dusting)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 4 tbsp Cooking oil
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 0.5 medium Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tbsp Malawi curry spice blend(optional, for a richer flavor)
- Nsima(for serving (prepared separately))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Clean the fish fillets, then season them with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with lemon juice and let them rest for a few minutes.
- 2
Dredge the fish fillets in flour, shaking off any excess.
- 3
Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry the fish fillets for about 4-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
- 4
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes and green bell pepper to the pan. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
If using, stir in the Malawi curry spice blend and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 7
Pour in 1 cup of water, stirring to incorporate any bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
- 8
Add the fish fillets back into the pan, ensuring they are coated with the sauce. Cover and let simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 9
Serve the Chambo fish with its gravy alongside freshly prepared nsima.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Chambo is a freshwater fish native to Lake Malawi, but tilapia fillets are a good substitute if unavailable.
- ✓The Malawi curry spice blend is optional but adds a traditional depth of flavor.
- ✓Ndiwo can also be made with other vegetables like spinach or pumpkin leaves.
🔄 Variations
- For a spicier version, add finely chopped chilies along with the tomatoes.
- Some recipes include fruit chutney in the gravy for a sweet and sour element.