Mchuzi wa Samaki
Mchuzi wa Samaki, meaning 'fish stew' in Swahili, is a flavorful fish curry popular in Burundi and other East African coastal regions. It features firm white fish cooked in a rich sauce made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Firm white fish fillets(cut into serving pieces)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 large Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 cm piece Grated ginger
- 1 cup Chopped tomatoes
- 1.5 cups Coconut milk
- 2 tsp Garam masala or curry powder
- 1 tbsp Tamarind paste or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the fish on both sides until lightly browned but not cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the fish. - 2
Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 3
Add the chopped tomatoes, garam masala (or curry powder), salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
💡 Tip: This step helps to bloom the spices and release their aroma. - 4
Pour in the coconut milk and tamarind paste (or lemon juice). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6-8 minutes.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the bottom from sticking. - 5
Gently place the seared fish fillets back into the simmering sauce. Cover and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
💡 Tip: Avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent the fish from breaking apart. - 6
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, ugali, or boiled potatoes.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm white fish such as tilapia, cod, or snapper for best results.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garam masala or curry powder to your spice preference.
- ✓For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper (like a Scotch Bonnet) along with the garlic and ginger.
🔄 Variations
- Substitute fish with shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Some recipes include bell peppers or a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.