Dongo-Dongo with Smoked Fish
A flavorful and hearty okra and smoked fish stew, considered a precursor to gumbo. This dish highlights the use of okra and the rich flavors of smoked fish, often served with starchy accompaniments.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Okra(fresh or frozen, sliced)
- 200 g Smoked fish(such as cod or mackerel, flaked)
- 1 large Onions(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.5 red Bell pepper(chopped)
- 0.5 optional Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 500 ml Water or fish stock
- 1 optional Maggi cube or bouillon
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using salt fish, soak it in warm water for about 30 minutes to reduce saltiness, then flake it. If using smoked fish, ensure it's deboned and flaked.
💡 Tip: Rinsing smoked fish can also help remove excess salt. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- 5
Add the sliced okra to the pot. Stir well to coat with the aromatics. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to reduce sliminess.
💡 Tip: Frying the okra slightly before adding liquid can help minimize slime. - 6
Pour in the water or fish stock. Crumble in the Maggi cube if using. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Start with less liquid and add more if needed to reach desired consistency. - 7
Add the flaked smoked fish to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir gently.
- 8
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded.
- 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with rice, fufu, or chikwangue.
💡 Tip: Dongo-dongo is often served with starchy sides that absorb the flavorful sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓To reduce okra slime, you can fry it separately before adding it to the stew, or add a pinch of baking soda when cooking.
- ✓Different types of smoked or salted fish can be used, depending on availability.
- ✓For a thicker stew, mash some of the okra against the side of the pot.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like chopped tomatoes or spinach.
- Include small shrimp or other seafood for added flavor.
- For a meatier version, add small pieces of chicken or beef.