Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe Recipe from Angola

Region / culture: Angola | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe, or Peanut Fish Balls, is a delightful appetizer that combines the nutty flavors of peanuts with the freshness of fish, creating a unique and savory treat. This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a taste that appeals to both children and adults. The recipe involves a blend of simple ingredients, leading to an explosion of flavors that celebrate the culinary traditions of regions where peanuts and fish are staples.

History

The origins of Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe can be traced back to West Africa, where peanuts (mancarra) are widely used in various dishes. The recipe was likely brought to other parts of the world through the African diaspora, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients. This dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of African cuisine and its influence on global food culture.

Ingredients

1 cup raw peanuts
2 lb (907 g) tilapia fish
juice of 1 lemon (3 tbsp)
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
6 thin slices onion
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 medium onions, grated
1 sprig parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
about 0.25 cup chicken broth
vegetable oil for frying

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and bake them until they are lightly golden, which should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to shake the sheet occasionally. Once done, remove the peanuts from the oven and let them cool. Grind the peanuts in a food processor and set them aside.
Season the fish with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and onion slices. Set it aside for 30 minutes. Heat oil in a medium skillet and sauté the fish in the oil until it turns golden on both sides. Remove the fish from the skillet and let it cool. Flake the fish into small pieces.
In a bowl, combine the flaked fish with onions, parsley, salt, and ground peanuts. Mix everything well. Add enough broth to hold the ingredients together. Shape the mixture into balls and fry them in hot oil until they turn golden on all sides. Serve the fish balls warm or at room temperature with drinks.

Variations

For a healthier version, you can bake the balls instead of frying them. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of fish or add spices like chili flakes or cumin for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, use fresh fish for this recipe. Fresh fish has a subtle sweetness that complements the nuttiness of the peanuts. When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough so that the balls become crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside. To prevent the balls from falling apart, do not overcrowd the pan and turn them gently.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these peanut fish balls with a side of spicy dipping sauce or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. They can also be enjoyed as a snack with a cold beverage.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include baking the peanuts to enhance their flavor, marinating the fish to infuse it with lemony freshness, and frying the balls to achieve a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those allergic to peanuts, almond or cashew butter can be used as a substitute. If fish is not your preferred choice, shredded chicken or even chickpeas can serve as an excellent alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The fish balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before frying. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these balls on a platter garnished with lemon wedges and parsley. For individual servings, place a few balls in small cups with dipping sauce at the bottom.

Pairing Recommendations

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe pairs well with light, crisp white wines or a cold beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover fish balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and proteins in the dish.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbs in this dish comes from the peanuts and the small amount of broth used to bind the ingredients.

Fats

This dish is relatively high in fats, with each serving containing about 20 grams, primarily from the peanuts and the vegetable oil used for frying. However, peanuts contain healthy fats that can be beneficial when consumed in moderation.

Proteins

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe is an excellent source of protein, providing about 25 grams per serving. The combination of fish and peanuts makes it a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E from the peanuts, omega-3 fatty acids from the fish, and Vitamin C from the lemon juice. It also provides iron, magnesium, and zinc, contributing to a balanced diet.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are peanuts and fish. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, due to its calorie and fat content, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe is a versatile and flavorful dish that showcases the delightful combination of peanuts and fish. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to adapt to various dietary needs, it's a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a taste of African culinary tradition with every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe. I was a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother, who was known in our small village for her delicious and unique dishes. She was a wise woman, with a twinkle in her eye and a knowing smile that always made me feel at ease in the kitchen.

One day, as I watched her prepare a feast for a family gathering, she suddenly stopped and looked at me with a mischievous gleam in her eye. "Would you like to learn how to make Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe?" she asked, her voice filled with excitement. I nodded eagerly, curious about the exotic-sounding dish. Little did I know that this simple question would lead me on a culinary adventure that I would never forget.

My grandmother took me by the hand and led me to a small market in the village, where she bought fresh ingredients for the dish. As we walked through the bustling marketplace, she pointed out different spices and ingredients, teaching me their names and explaining their uses in cooking. I was fascinated by the variety of flavors and aromas that filled the air, and I couldn't wait to start cooking.

Back in her cozy kitchen, my grandmother began to show me the steps to make the Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe. She started by marinating the fish in a blend of spices and herbs, explaining the importance of allowing the flavors to meld together. As she worked, she shared stories of her own childhood, when she learned the recipe from a traveling chef who had passed through the village many years ago.

I listened intently as she mixed the ingredients for the bolinhos, shaping them into small balls before frying them to a golden brown. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

After a few minutes, the Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe were ready, and my grandmother plated them with a side of fresh salad and rice. I took my first bite, savoring the crispy exterior and the tender, flavorful fish inside. The combination of spices and herbs was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this dish would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe for my family and friends, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have experimented with different types of fish and spices, always striving to perfect the dish just like my grandmother taught me. Every time I cook this dish, I am transported back to that day in her kitchen, learning the art of cooking from a woman who had a passion for food and a love for sharing her knowledge with others.

As I grow older, I realize that the recipes I have learned from my grandmother are more than just instructions for making a meal. They are a connection to my past, a way to honor her memory and the traditions that she passed down to me. And as I continue to cook and share these recipes with others, I am reminded of the joy and love that can be found in a simple dish made with care and passion.

So, the next time you have a craving for something new and exotic, why not try your hand at making Bolinhos de Mancarra com Peixe? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be able to pass down this special recipe to your own loved ones, just like my grandmother did for me.