Ugali na Samaki wa Kaanga
A quintessential Tanzanian meal consisting of ugali, a stiff maize porridge, served with pan-fried or deep-fried fish. The fish is often seasoned simply with salt and pepper, allowing its natural flavor to shine, and is a staple across the country, especially in coastal regions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Maize flour (cornmeal)
- 4 cups Water(adjust for consistency)
- 600 g White fish fillets(such as tilapia or Nile perch, cut into portions)
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil(for frying)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for serving Lemon wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the ugali: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of maize flour until smooth. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- 2
Continue to stir the ugali vigorously with a wooden spoon, gradually adding the remaining 1 cup of maize flour. Keep stirring and folding until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, forming a stiff porridge. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Shape into a mound or individual portions.
- 3
While the ugali is cooking, prepare the fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- 4
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned fish fillets, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
- 5
Fry the fish for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
- 6
Remove the fried fish from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with the prepared ugali and lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency of ugali can be adjusted by adding more or less water and flour. It should be firm enough to hold its shape.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a crispy exterior.
- ✓For a healthier option, the fish can be grilled or baked instead of fried.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with a side of kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salad).
- Marinate the fish in lime juice and spices before frying for added flavor.