Kajaik

Kajaik
South-Sudan
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900 g) fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish), cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups water or fish broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Bell Pepper

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add the Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground black pepper, and salt.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Add the Liquid

Pour in the water or fish broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook the Fish

Gently add the fish chunks to the pot.

Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Finish the Stew

Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

Garnish the kajaik with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your meal!