Poisson à la Congolaise
A vibrant and aromatic fish dish cooked in a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce, often featuring a mix of local spices and herbs. This recipe highlights the fresh flavors of Congolese cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Whole fish (e.g., tilapia, red snapper)(cleaned and scaled, or fish fillets)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped or pureed)
- 1 large Onions(chopped)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 0.5 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, optional)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 cup Water or fish broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp Lime or lemon juice
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using a whole fish, make shallow cuts on both sides. Season the fish generously with salt, pepper, and lime/lemon juice. If using fillets, season them similarly.
- 2
In a large skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the fish (or fillets) for about 3-4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove the fish and set aside.
- 3
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Pour in the water or fish broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 7
Gently place the seared fish back into the sauce. If using whole fish, ensure it's partially submerged. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Serve hot with rice, fufu, or boiled plantains.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is cooked through but not overcooked, as it can become dry.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓Using fresh, ripe tomatoes will yield a richer sauce.
🔄 Variations
- Add a can of coconut milk for a creamier sauce.
- Include other vegetables like okra or eggplant.
- Marinate the fish for 30 minutes before searing for deeper flavor.