Mbotaye de Poisson
Mbotaye de Poisson is a delightful Senegalese dish featuring fish cooked in a rich, savory sauce made with fermented fish (netetou) and vegetables. It's a unique and flavorful preparation that highlights traditional West African ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g White fish fillets(such as tilapia or sea bass, cut into pieces)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Fermented fish (netetou)(minced, optional but traditional)
- 1 can (400g) Diced tomatoes
- 2 cups Vegetable broth or water
- 1 medium Eggplant(cubed)
- 1 cup Okra(trimmed)
- 2 cups Sweet potato leaves or spinach(chopped)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish chopped Fresh cilantro
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the fish pieces with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using fermented fish (netetou), add it now and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring well.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly.
- 5
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth or water, cumin, and coriander. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Add the cubed eggplant and okra to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender.
- 7
Gently place the seasoned fish pieces into the simmering sauce. Add the chopped sweet potato leaves or spinach. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Mbotaye de Poisson is traditionally served with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Fermented fish (netetou) has a strong aroma and flavor, use it according to your preference. It can be omitted if unavailable or not desired.
- ✓Ensure the fish is added gently to avoid breaking it apart.
- ✓Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired stew consistency.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can be added.
- A small amount of chili pepper can be added for extra heat.