Ugali wa Nazi na Samaki
A delightful combination of creamy coconut-infused ugali (maize porridge) served with pan-fried or grilled fish, a staple from Lake Tanganyika. This dish offers a balance of savory fish and comforting, subtly sweet ugali.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Maize flour
- 3 cups Water(plus more as needed)
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1 tsp Salt(for ugali and fish)
- 4 pieces Fish fillets(e.g., tilapia or mukeke, about 150g each)
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying fish)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped, for serving (optional))
- 1 medium Tomatoes(chopped, for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the Ugali: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and the coconut milk to a boil. Add salt.
- 2
Gradually whisk in the maize flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to stir and cook over medium-low heat, mashing against the sides of the pot, until the ugali thickens and pulls away from the sides, about 10-15 minutes. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- 3
While the ugali is cooking, prepare the fish. Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt and lemon juice.
- 4
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the fish fillets in the hot oil and fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- 5
Serve the hot ugali with the pan-fried fish. Optionally, top with chopped onions and tomatoes.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you stir the ugali continuously to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the fish; cook in batches if necessary.
- ✓Mukeke is a local fish from Lake Tanganyika, but any firm white fish can be substituted.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of turmeric to the ugali for a yellowish hue and subtle flavor.
- Serve with a side of mchicha (greens) cooked with coconut milk.