Pescado en Salsa de Coco
A flavorful Nicaraguan dish featuring fish cooked in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce, often seasoned with onions, peppers, and local spices. It's a staple of coastal Nicaraguan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs White fish fillets(such as snapper, tilapia, or cod, cut into serving pieces)
- 2 cups Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(any color, chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice(fresh)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 optional Scotch bonnet pepper(minced, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is evenly seasoned. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. If using, add the minced scotch bonnet pepper.
💡 Tip: Do not boil the coconut milk vigorously, as it can curdle. - 5
Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets into the simmering coconut sauce. Spoon some sauce over the fish. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
💡 Tip: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish fillets. - 6
Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
💡 Tip: The lime juice adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich coconut sauce. - 7
Serve the fish with the coconut sauce spooned over it. Garnish with fresh cilantro. This dish is typically served with white rice.
💡 Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- ✓Other vegetables like plantains or yuca can be added to the sauce for a more substantial meal.
- ✓If you prefer a milder heat, omit the scotch bonnet pepper or use a smaller amount.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add shrimp or other seafood along with the fish.
- Incorporate a pinch of curry powder or turmeric for added flavor and color.