Mous Sebech
Mous Sebech is a flavorful Mauritanian fish and vegetable stew, often prepared with a rich tomato and peanut base, offering a comforting and aromatic culinary experience.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Firm white fish fillets(such as cod, sea bass, or snapper, cut into large chunks)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 800 g Tomatoes(canned crushed or diced)
- 150 g Peanut butter(smooth or crunchy, unsweetened)
- 500 ml Vegetable broth
- 1 large Bell pepper(any color, chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 1 medium Sweet potato(peeled and cubed)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- for garnish chopped Fresh cilantro
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- 4
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the peanut butter until well combined and the sauce is smooth.
- 5
Add the chopped bell pepper, sliced carrots, and cubed sweet potato to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
- 6
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- 7
Gently place the fish fillets into the simmering stew. Ensure they are mostly submerged. Cover and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the peanut butter is unsweetened for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like zucchini or okra.
- ✓Serve with couscous or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
🔄 Variations
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for a touch of acidity.
- Incorporate a can of drained chickpeas for added protein and texture.
- Use different types of fish or even shrimp.