Pweza wa Nazi (Octopus in Coconut Curry)
A rich and flavorful coastal dish featuring tender octopus simmered in a creamy coconut milk curry, infused with aromatic Tanzanian spices. This dish highlights the bounty of the Indian Ocean and is a testament to the culinary traditions of Zanzibar.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Octopus(cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 2 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1-2 Chili peppers(finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 1/2 Lime(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh octopus, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned. If using frozen, thaw completely. Cut the octopus into bite-sized pieces.
💡 Tip: Tenderizing octopus can be done by beating it gently against a hard surface, or by simmering it in water for about 30-45 minutes until tender before proceeding with the curry. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped chili peppers. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Add the octopus pieces to the pot and stir to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 7
Pour in the coconut milk and add salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the coconut milk is well-shaken or stirred if it has separated. - 8
Bring the curry to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the octopus is tender and the sauce has thickened.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
💡 Tip: Traditionally served with rice, ugali, or chapati.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra tender octopus, you can pre-boil or pressure cook it before adding it to the curry.
- ✓Adjust the chili peppers to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓Using fresh, high-quality coconut milk will enhance the flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Substitute octopus with firm white fish (like snapper or tilapia) or shrimp.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking.