Banku with Grilled Tilapia
A staple Ghanaian dish featuring fermented corn and cassava dough (Banku) served with a flavorful grilled tilapia, often accompanied by a spicy shito (pepper sauce).
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Corn dough (fermented)
- 500 g Cassava dough (fermented)
- 4 cups Water
- 2 medium Tilapia(cleaned and scaled)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped (optional, for marinade))
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Banku: In a large pot, combine the corn and cassava dough with 2 cups of water. Stir well to form a smooth mixture. Place over medium heat and stir continuously until it thickens. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of water, stirring to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring vigorously, until the mixture forms a firm, smooth dough. This process takes about 20-30 minutes. Shape into a ball and keep warm.
- 2
Prepare the Tilapia Marinade: In a bowl, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped scotch bonnet (if using), lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Marinate the Tilapia: Score the tilapia on both sides. Rub the marinade all over the fish, ensuring it gets into the scores. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 4
Grill the Tilapia: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the marinated tilapia on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Brush with remaining vegetable oil during grilling if needed.
- 5
Serve: Serve the hot Banku alongside the grilled tilapia. Accompany with shito (Ghanaian pepper sauce) or a fresh tomato and onion salsa.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the dough for Banku is smooth to avoid lumps.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your spice preference.
- ✓Don't overcook the tilapia to keep it moist.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with other grilled or fried fish.
- Add a side of garden eggs stew.