Maraq Yaanyo iyo Bariis (Tomato and Fish Stew with Rice)
A light yet flavorful tomato-based fish stew, often made with firm white fish, served alongside fluffy white rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Firm white fish fillets(such as tilapia, cod, or snapper, cut into chunks)
- 2 cups Basmati rice(rinsed)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 3 cups Water(for cooking rice)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley or cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the basmati rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice with 3 cups of water, a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
While the rice cooks, prepare the stew: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, coriander, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Add about 1 cup of water to the tomato mixture. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Gently add the fish chunks to the simmering tomato sauce. Ensure the fish is mostly submerged.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as this can break up the fish. - 7
Cover the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fish.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors. - 9
Serve the fish stew hot over the fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
💡 Tip: This dish is often enjoyed with a side of simple greens.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape well during cooking.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish; it should be just cooked through.
- ✓The tomato base can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, then reheated before adding the fish.
- ✓A dash of chili flakes can be added for a bit of heat.
🔄 Variations
- Add some chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the stew for extra vegetables.
- For a richer flavor, a small amount of coconut milk can be added to the tomato base.
- This stew can also be made with shrimp or firm tofu.