Congolese Liboke ya Mbisi (Fish in Banana Leaves)

Ingredients

• 4 whole tilapia or similar firm fish, cleaned
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chili pepper, minced
• 2 tbsp palm oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Banana leaves, for wrapping
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1Season the cleaned fish generously with salt and pepper, inside and out.
2. 2In a bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili, palm oil, parsley or basil, and a pinch of salt to make a fresh relish.
3. 3Soften the banana leaves briefly over an open flame or in a hot pan to make them pliable.
4. 4Place each fish on a banana leaf and spoon the tomato relish generously over and inside the fish.
5. 5Wrap the leaves tightly around the fish to form secure parcels, securing with kitchen string or leaf strips.
6. 6Grill the parcels over medium coals, or steam them in a covered pot, for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through.
7. 7Carefully unwrap the parcels, being mindful of hot steam.
8. 8Serve hot directly from the leaves with rice, fufu, or plantains.

Comments

Loading comments…