Omena with Omena Ugali
A unique coastal delicacy where small dried fish (omena) are prepared in a flavorful stew and served alongside ugali that has been infused with omena for an extra layer of taste and texture. This dish highlights the resourceful use of local ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Omena (small dried fish)(rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups White maize flour (for ugali)
- 6 cups Water (for ugali)(divided)
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 4 tbsp Cooking oil
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 50 g Omena (for ugali infusion)(lightly fried until crisp, then crushed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the omena stew: Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and green bell pepper. Cook until tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce, about 10 minutes.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Add the rinsed omena, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Add about 1/2 cup of water, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the omena to soften.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 5
Prepare the omena ugali: In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the maize flour to form a smooth, lump-free mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of water, stirring continuously to achieve the desired consistency for ugali. Continue to cook, stirring and folding with a wooden spoon, until the ugali is firm and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 7
In the last 5 minutes of cooking the ugali, stir in the crushed, fried omena. This will infuse the ugali with a savory, fishy flavor and a slight crunch.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Serve the omena stew hot alongside the omena ugali. Garnish with fresh coriander if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the omena is thoroughly rinsed to remove excess salt and sand.
- ✓For a spicier stew, add a chopped chili pepper along with the tomatoes.
- ✓The consistency of ugali can be adjusted by adding more or less water.
- ✓Frying the omena for the ugali infusion until crisp will enhance its flavor and texture.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of coconut milk to the omena stew for a creamier texture.
- Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or kale into the stew.