Djiboutian Fish and Okra Stew (Samak Bamya)
A flavorful and aromatic stew featuring tender pieces of fish cooked with okra, tomatoes, and a blend of East African spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as cod or snapper, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 400 g Fresh or frozen okra(trimmed if fresh)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(diced)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric
- 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper(optional, for heat)
- 1 cup Water or fish broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- 2
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the spices are fragrant and the tomatoes begin to break down.
- 3
Add the okra to the pot. Stir to coat with the tomato and spice mixture. Pour in the water or fish broth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- 4
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
Gently add the fish pieces to the stew. Spoon some of the sauce over the fish. Cover and simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- 6
Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. This stew is excellent served with rice or a side of injera.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If using fresh okra, you can blanch it for a few minutes before adding to the stew to reduce sliminess.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish; it should be just cooked through.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of dried fenugreek for a unique aroma.
- Incorporate a small diced bell pepper along with the onions.