Marake Kaloune
Marake Kaloune is a flavorful fish and vegetable stew originating from Djibouti, featuring a delightful blend of tender fish, hearty vegetables like potatoes, okra, and eggplant, simmered in a savory broth with tamarind for a unique tang. It's often served with rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs White fish fillets (e.g., tilapia, sea bass, sole)(cut into chunks)
- 1.5 lbs Potatoes(peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 2 medium Onions(sliced into rings)
- 4 medium Okra(chopped)
- 3 small Eggplant(diced)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(blanched, peeled, and diced)
- 2 tbsp Tamarind paste
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(to taste)
- 1 cup White rice(uncooked)
- 2.5 cups Water(or enough to cover ingredients)
- 1 bunch Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet with high sides over medium heat. Add the potato slices in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes on one side, or until they start to brown. Flip and cook for 1 minute on the other side. Remove and set aside.
- 2
Add the onions to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes until they start to brown. Return the potatoes to the skillet, then add the okra, eggplant, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 3
Stir in the tamarind paste, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to distribute the seasonings.
- 4
Add the uncooked white rice and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
- 5
Add the fish chunks and enough water to cover all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- 6
Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of tamarind paste to your preference for tanginess.
- ✓If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used sparingly.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Use a different type of firm white fish.
- Serve with a side of Djibouti's traditional flatbread, Canjeero.