Savory Rice with Spiced Fish Stew

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience inspired by the rich flavors of Zimbabwe! This Savory Rice with Spiced Fish Stew captures the essence of Zimbabwean cuisine, fusing traditional ingredients with a touch of modern flair. The dish features fluffy, aromatic rice paired beautifully with a robust, spiced fish stew that speaks to the heart of Africa. As we dive into this recipe, bear in mind that meals like this can be perfect not only for gathering loved ones around the table but also for sharing with a wider audience through platforms like Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s vibrant local food marketplace.

Ingredients

For the Savory Rice:

2 cups long-grain rice

4 cups chicken or fish stock

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt, to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Fresh coriander for garnishing

For the Spiced Fish Stew:

500 grams firm white fish (like tilapia or catfish), cut into chunks

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, minced

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon curry powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup coconut milk

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley or coriander for garnishing

Instructions

Prepare the Savory Rice:

In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and turmeric, stirring until fragrant.

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat in the oil and spices. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.

Pour in the chicken or fish stock, and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm.

Make the Spiced Fish Stew:

In another skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Incorporate garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute.

Add the green bell pepper and cook until it softens, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, and curry powder. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Add the fish pieces to the skillet, carefully coating them in the sauce. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Gently simmer until the fish is cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Finish with lemon juice.

Serve:

To serve, plate a generous scoop of savory rice and ladle the spiced fish stew over it. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

Feel free to use any firm white fish; just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor.

For extra depth, marinate the fish in lemon juice and spices for an hour before cooking.

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper or adding chili peppers.

This dish can be easily doubled or halved, making it a versatile option for family gatherings or small dinners.

If you’re considering sharing your culinary talents, think about listing your creation on Zimbo Menu for wider appreciation and potential business opportunities.

This Savory Rice with Spiced Fish Stew recipe is just one example of how simple ingredients can create astonishing flavors, making it perfect for family meals or setting the stage for food entrepreneurship. Explore more unique recipes and share delightful meals through Zimbo Menu while discovering if the platform meets your culinary aspirations.

Don’t forget to download the Zimbo Menu apps today and start your journey toward delicious home cooking and exciting business possibilities!