Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce
Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce Recipe - A Delicious Central African and Senegalese Dish
Introduction
Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that is popular in many African countries. This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the sweetness of onions and the tanginess of tomato sauce to create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
This recipe has been passed down through generations in many African households. Fish is a staple in African cuisine, and the combination of fish, onions, and tomato sauce is a classic flavor profile that is loved by many.
Ingredients
- 1 whole fish (several if using small fish) - 0.5 lb per serving
- 1 or 2 onions, chopped
- oil for frying
- fresh tomatoes (peeled and chopped) or canned tomatoes, tomato paste, or tomato sauce
- cayenne pepper or red pepper, black pepper, salt
How to prepare
- Clean the fish and stuff the stomach cavity with chopped onions.
- Heat oil in a frying pan.
- Fry the fish in the oil on both sides until it is nearly done.
- Add tomatoes and spices.
- Simmer until the fish is fully cooked.
- Serve with Baton de manioc / Chikwangue, Fufu, or rice; and African Hot Sauce, along with a side of vegetables.
Variations
- Add bell peppers or other vegetables to the tomato sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of fish, such as tilapia or catfish, for a unique twist on this recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to clean the fish thoroughly before cooking to remove any scales or bones.
- Stuffing the fish with chopped onions adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Be sure to fry the fish until it is nearly done before adding the tomato sauce to ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Simmering the fish in the tomato sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce with Baton de manioc / Chikwangue, Fufu, or rice; and African Hot Sauce, along with a side of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Frying the fish before simmering it in the tomato sauce helps to seal in the flavor and create a crispy exterior.
- Simmering the fish in the tomato sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and delicious sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead.
- You can also use frozen fish fillets instead of whole fish for a quicker and easier preparation.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the fish and onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This dish also reheats well, so you can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce on a bed of rice or fufu, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a microwave-safe container and heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 200 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 10g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 8g per serving
Saturated Fat: 2g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 20g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for those with fish allergies.
Summary
Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a great option for those looking to eat a healthy and satisfying meal.
Summary
Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its flavorful combination of fish, onions, and tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known throughout the neighborhood for her delicious and unique recipes, and I was always eager to learn from her.
As we chatted over cups of strong coffee, Maria suddenly disappeared into her pantry and emerged with a tattered old cookbook. She flipped through the pages with a knowing smile on her face before stopping at a recipe that caught my eye. Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce. The name alone made my mouth water.
Maria explained that this recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, originating from her great-grandmother who had immigrated from Italy. She told me stories of her childhood, watching her grandmother prepare this dish with love and care, the aromas filling the entire house.
I begged Maria to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed. We spent the afternoon gathering the necessary ingredients – fresh fish fillets, ripe tomatoes, fragrant onions, and a blend of herbs and spices. Maria walked me through each step, demonstrating the proper technique and sharing her tips and tricks along the way.
The key, she explained, was to sauté the onions slowly until they were soft and caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness. This would form the flavorful base of the tomato sauce, infusing it with a depth of flavor that could not be replicated by any shortcut.
Next, we added the tomatoes, crushing them with our hands to release their juices. As the sauce simmered on the stove, Maria added a splash of white wine for acidity and a sprinkle of sugar to balance out the tartness. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a symphony of garlic, herbs, and tomatoes.
Finally, it was time to add the fish. Maria carefully placed the fillets into the sauce, allowing them to gently poach until they were cooked through and tender. She stressed the importance of not overcooking the fish, as it would become tough and dry.
As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce. The flavors exploded on my tongue – the sweetness of the onions, the tanginess of the tomatoes, and the delicate flakiness of the fish. It was a perfect balance of textures and tastes, a dish that spoke of tradition and love.
From that day on, Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce became a staple in my own kitchen. I would prepare it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I made it, I would think of Maria and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking and good food.
As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. But no matter how many recipes I tried, Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce remained a favorite, a comforting reminder of my dear friend Maria and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
And so, as I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing this timeless dish once again, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I may have learned how to make Fish and Onions in Tomato Sauce from Maria, but the true secret ingredient is the love and passion that I bring to every dish I create. And that, my dear friends, is a recipe that can never be replicated.
Categories
| Central African Meat Dishes | Central African Recipes | Fish Recipes | Onion Recipes | Senegalese Meat Dishes | Senegalese Recipes | Tomato Recipes |