HOW TO PREPARE NIGERIAN FISH STEW RECIPE

Fish is a very healthy alternative for those who for reasons decide to stay off meat. So if you have been asked to stay off meat, then you have a even better option, Fish! Learn how to make the best fish stew today and have a blast

This can be due to health reasons, religion or a thing of principle. Stew has always existed and dates back to the 8th century however today in west Africa, stew consists of a tomato mix which consists of Pepper, tomato and onions. Fish stew is a common delicacy sold by many local restaurants in Nigeria, and is sometimes eaten with boiled eggs.

INGREDIENTS

• 1kg (yellow paint bucket) of Fresh Tomatoes 
• 2 medium bulbs of Onions
• 5 Habanero Pepper (atarodo)
• 500ml Vegetable Oil 
• 300g Fresh fish 
• 2  stock cubes
• Thyme and curry (1 teaspoon each)
• Salt to taste 
• 1 leaf of laurel (Bay leaf) 

MAKING YOUR NIGERIAN FISH STEW

• The first step is to blend the tomatoes, peppers and onions.
• When your ground tomato and it’s in large quantities, it is best to pour the blended tomatoes into a pot and let it boil until it is a thick paste and the excess water is dried up.
• Then add your Fresh fish In another pot, add your curry, thyme, 1 stock cube and salt then pour in a little water. Let this boil for about 2 minutes, the fish is boiled when it has lost a bit of its natural raw appearance, and parboiling your fish with spice allows it to be tasty. 
• Heat up the vegetable oil, and add some onions. Add in your tomato paste, tin tomatoes and the bay leaf and fry for about 25 minutes make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning, do this until the tomato loses its sour taste. 
• Let the parboiled fish go in next along with the water(stock), add the stock cube and salt to taste. Cover and leave to cook for another 10-15 minutes Food is ready!

Fish are high in proteins, but take care when feeding to children ensure to remove bones that can get stuck in their throats. The Nigerian stew is a special delight, however, you can also try out other dishes like  Fried rice, Roasted Chicken, and Nigerian coconut rice.