Ghanaian Rice with Smoked Fish Stew Recipe

1 hour

Cooking time

Ghanaian

Cuisine

Dinner

Meal Type

Medium

Difficulty Level

Ingredients

2 cups long grain rice
4 cups water
½ teaspoon salt
300g smoked fish (mackerel or herrings)
½ cup vegetable oil or palm oil
1 large onion (chopped)
1 seasoning cube (optional)

4 medium tomatoes (blended)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
1 cup water or stock

Directions

Step 1 : Measure and Rinse the Rice Thoroughly

Begin by measuring two cups of rice into a bowl and rinsing it under cold running water. Gently rub the grains together to remove excess starch and impurities. Repeat until the water runs clear. Proper rinsing ensures the rice cooks into fluffy, separate grains rather than becoming sticky. Drain completely using a sieve and set aside. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture to pair with the smoked fish stew.

Step 2 : Cook the Rice Until Soft and Fluffy

Place a pot on medium heat and add four cups of water along with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the rinsed rice. Stir briefly, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes. Avoid frequent stirring. Once the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, remove from heat and let it rest before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3 : Prepare the Smoked Fish Properly

Clean the smoked fish by removing bones and any unwanted parts. Rinse lightly and set aside. Proper preparation ensures the fish is ready to absorb the stew flavors.

Step 4 : Blend Tomatoes and Aromatics

Blend tomatoes with onion, garlic, ginger, and pepper into a smooth mixture. This forms the base of the stew.

Step 5 : Heat Oil for the Stew

Place a pot on medium heat and add vegetable or palm oil. Allow it to heat until slightly shimmering.

Step 6 : Sauté Onions for Flavor Base

Add chopped onions to the oil and sauté until soft and fragrant. This step builds a rich base flavor.

Step 7 : Add Tomato Mixture and Cook

Pour the blended mixture into the pot and cook until thickened and oil begins to separate. Stir occasionally.

Step 8 : Add Tomato Paste for Richness

Add tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to deepen the color and flavor.

Step 9 : Add Smoked Fish to the Stew

Gently add the smoked fish to the stew and stir carefully to avoid breaking it too much.

Step 10 : Add Water and Seasonings

Add water or stock, salt, and seasoning cube. Stir well to combine.

Step 11 : Simmer to Develop Flavor

Allow the stew to simmer for 15–20 minutes so the flavors blend and the fish absorbs the sauce.

Step 12 : Adjust Taste and Texture

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ensure the stew has a rich consistency.

Step 13 : Serve Rice with Smoked Fish Stew

Fluff the rice and serve hot with the smoked fish stew. Enjoy this authentic Ghanaian meal.