Dahomey was an African kingdom (part of the
region called the "Slave Coast") that flourished in the
18th and 19th centuries in what is now Benin. The modern nation
of Benin was known as Dahomey in the early 1970's when this
recipe was published.
two porgies (or sea bream, scrup,
tilapia, or any firm, low-fat flesh fish), one to two pounds
each; cleaned
flour
salt, black pepper, to taste
one quarter cup palm oil or vegetable oil
two onions, finely chopped
two tomatoes, chopped
one cup fish stock or water
red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (optional)
Cut the fish crosswise, into two-inch
sections. Mix the flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Roll the
fish in the flour mixture.
Heat the oil in a skillet. Cook the fish in the oil, turning it
until it is golden brown all over. Remove the fish and set aside.
Fry the onions in the skillet for a few minutes. Add the
tomatoes. Stir and cook for about ten minutes. Add the fish stock
(or water). Reduce heat, cover and simmer for ten minutes more.
Return the fish to the skillet. Add red pepper if desired. Simmer
for twenty to thirty minutes. Serve with Rice.
Serves 4.
country : Benin
course : fish dish