Mpangwe ndi Masamba (Catfish with Greens)
A hearty and nutritious dish featuring tender catfish simmered with a medley of fresh greens in a savory broth. This recipe celebrates the bounty of Lake Malawi and the common practice of pairing fish with leafy vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Catfish fillets(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 500 g Mixed greens(such as spinach, mustard greens, collard greens, roughly chopped)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 4 tablespoons Peanut butter(smooth or crunchy)
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 3 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 optional Chili pepper(finely chopped, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped chili pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to break down.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and 1 cup of water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the peanut butter is well-dissolved prevents lumps. - 5
Add the remaining 2 cups of water, salt, and black pepper. Bring the stew to a simmer.
- 6
Gently add the catfish pieces to the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
💡 Tip: Avoid over-stirring once the fish is added to prevent it from breaking apart. - 7
Add the chopped mixed greens to the pot. Stir them into the stew and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, traditionally with nsima or rice.
💡 Tip: The greens will reduce significantly in volume.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a firm-fleshed fish like tilapia or chambo if catfish is unavailable.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can lightly fry the fish pieces before adding them to the stew.
- ✓Ensure the greens are thoroughly washed to remove any grit.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like diced potatoes or sweet potatoes.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the fish and add more beans or firm tofu.