Ghanaian Tilapia with Groundnut Sauce
Whole tilapia, often grilled or fried until crispy, served with a rich and savory groundnut (peanut) sauce, a staple in Ghanaian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole Tilapia(cleaned and scaled)
- 200 g Groundnuts (Peanuts)(roasted and unsalted)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1/2 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped (optional))
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 crumbled Stock cube
- 1.5 cups Water
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the groundnut paste: Grind the roasted peanuts into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle. If using a food processor, you may need to add a tablespoon or two of water to help it along.
- 2
Prepare the fish: Score the cleaned tilapia on both sides. Rub with salt and lemon juice. You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry the fish until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- 3
Make the sauce: In a pot, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 5
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they break down.
- 6
Stir in the groundnut paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to prevent sticking.
- 7
Gradually add the water, stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce. Add the crumbled stock cube and salt to taste. Bring to a simmer.
- 8
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the oil separates slightly to the surface. Add more water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- 9
Serve the crispy tilapia with a generous portion of the groundnut sauce. This dish is often enjoyed with rice, fufu, or boiled yam.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your peanuts are well-roasted for the best flavor.
- ✓Don't rush the simmering of the groundnut sauce; it needs time for the flavors to develop.
- ✓If you don't have whole tilapia, fish fillets can also be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
🔄 Variations
- Add some sliced bell peppers or onions to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of scotch bonnet pepper.