Ugandan Fish Stew with Tomatoes
A flavorful and aromatic fish stew, this dish highlights fresh fish simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with a blend of Ugandan spices. It's a comforting and relatively quick meal, often served with rice, posho, or matoke.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Tilapia or other firm white fish fillets(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- 1.5 cups Water
- 1/4 cup Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add chopped tomatoes and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes break down and form a sauce-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in cumin powder, paprika, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 5
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 6
Gently add the fish pieces to the simmering sauce. Ensure the fish is mostly submerged. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking.
- 7
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use fresh fish for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the tomatoes against the side of the pot.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes.
- For a touch of heat, add a chopped chili pepper along with the tomatoes.
- Smoked fish can be used for a different flavor profile.