Tilapia à la Congolaise
A vibrant and flavorful whole fish dish, typically tilapia, marinated and cooked in a zesty tomato and onion sauce infused with local spices. This preparation highlights the fresh flavors of the Congo River and is often served with a side of rice or fufu.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Whole tilapia(cleaned, scaled, and scored)
- 2 large Onions(1 finely chopped, 1 sliced)
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 optional Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped, or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Coriander leaves
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the tilapia and pat dry. Make 2-3 deep scores on each side of the fish. Rub generously with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well.
- 3
Stuff the fish cavities and scores with the onion-garlic-ginger mixture. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure some of the mixture gets into the scored cuts for maximum flavor. - 4
Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated fish for about 3-4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove fish and set aside.
- 5
Add the remaining 2 tbsp of oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- 7
Carefully return the seared fish to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over the fish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is not completely submerged, allowing it to steam and cook through. - 8
Cover the skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily. Baste the fish with the sauce occasionally.
💡 Tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the fish. - 9
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If tilapia is unavailable, other firm white fish like sea bass or snapper can be used.
- ✓For a spicier dish, add more scotch bonnet or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- ✓Serve with boiled rice, fufu, or fried plantains.
🔄 Variations
- Add sliced bell peppers or okra to the sauce for added vegetables.
- A splash of palm oil can be added to the sauce for a more traditional flavor.