Samaki wa Kupaka
Grilled Fish in Coconut Sauce
A flavorful Tanzanian dish featuring grilled fish marinated in spices and then simmered in a rich, aromatic coconut milk sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole fish (e.g., snapper, tilapia)(cleaned and scaled, about 1-1.5 lbs each)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Chili powder(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for grilling and sautéing)
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Score the cleaned fish on both sides. Marinate with salt, lime juice, and half of the minced garlic and ginger for at least 15 minutes.
💡 Tip: Scoring helps the marinade penetrate the fish. - 2
Grill the marinated fish over medium-high heat or in a hot oven until cooked through and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes per side. Set aside.
⏱️ 16-20 minutes - 3
In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Add the remaining minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Stir in the diced tomatoes, coriander, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Season with salt to taste. Let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 7
Gently place the grilled fish into the simmering coconut sauce. Spoon some sauce over the fish and let it cook for another 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot with rice or ugali.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fish is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust chili powder according to your spice preference.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish after placing it in the sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer color and flavor.
- Include sliced bell peppers or okra in the sauce for added vegetables.
- Use shrimp or other firm seafood instead of fish.