Pambota (Palm Kernel Soup with Smoked Fish)
Pambota is a rich and flavorful soup originating from the Ndowé ethnic group, featuring a base of palm kernel extract, infused with the smoky depth of smoked fish. It's a unique delicacy with an intense flavor, often enjoyed as a hearty meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Palm kernels(or 2 cans (400g each) of palm fruit concentrate/oil)
- 300 g Smoked fish(such as mackerel or barracuda, cleaned and cut into pieces)
- 4 cups Water
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(minced, or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- 200 g Optional: Smoked chicken(for added flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh palm kernels, crack them open and extract the juice. This can be done by boiling the kernels, then pounding them to release the oil, and straining through cheesecloth. Alternatively, use canned palm fruit concentrate.
💡 Tip: This step is labor-intensive. Using canned concentrate significantly simplifies the process. - 2
In a large pot, combine the palm kernel extract (or concentrate), water, chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced scotch bonnet pepper.
- 3
Add the cleaned and cut smoked fish (and smoked chicken, if using).
- 4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup should thicken and the flavors meld.
- 5
Season with salt to taste. Be mindful that smoked fish can be salty already.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust salt carefully. - 6
Serve hot, often accompanied by boiled yams, cassava, or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the smoked fish is crucial for the authentic flavor of Pambota.
- ✓If using palm fruit concentrate, follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution.
- ✓This soup is meant to have a rich, intense flavor. Adjust chili to your preference.
🔄 Variations
- Some variations use other smoked meats or a combination of fish and meat.
- A vegetarian version can be made using smoked tofu or mushrooms, though it deviates from the traditional preparation.