Tilapia with Groundnut Stew and Yam
A hearty and satisfying Ghanaian classic featuring pan-fried tilapia served in a rich, savory groundnut stew, accompanied by boiled yam. This dish is a staple in many Ghanaian households.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 medium Tilapia Fillets(about 150-200g each)
- 500 g Yam(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 250 g Peanut Butter(unsweetened, smooth)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned crushed or fresh, pureed)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Scotch Bonnet Pepper(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil(for frying fish and sautéing)
- 2 cups Water(or as needed for stew consistency)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice(for marinating fish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the tilapia: Season the tilapia fillets with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the groundnut stew: In a pot, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the peanut butter and mix well until combined with the tomato mixture. Gradually add the water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until you achieve a smooth stew consistency. Bring to a simmer.
- 4
Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
Boil the yam: While the stew simmers, place the yam chunks in a pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 6
Fry the tilapia: In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the marinated tilapia fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- 7
Serve: Ladle the groundnut stew onto plates. Place a piece of fried tilapia on top of the stew and serve with the boiled yam on the side.
💡 Tip: Ensure the stew is well-seasoned before serving. The yam should be tender but not mushy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother stew, you can blend the sautéed onion, garlic, ginger, and tomato mixture before adding the peanut butter.
- ✓If you prefer a richer peanut flavor, use roasted peanuts and grind them yourself.
- ✓The stew can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors often improve overnight.
🔄 Variations
- Add some chopped spinach or other leafy greens to the stew during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Serve with plain rice or fufu instead of yam.
- Use chicken or beef instead of tilapia for a different protein option.