Bahamian Stew Fish

Name: Bahamian Stew Fish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Bahamian
Ingredients: 700g grouper fillets, cut into chunks; 2 limes, juiced; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 2 ripe tomatoes, diced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 cups water; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole; Salt and black pepper to taste

Stew Fish (stoo fish)

Stewed Grouper in Tomato Sauce

⏱ Prep Time 20 min

📈 Difficulty Medium

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 300 kcal

Tender grouper simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and thyme. A hearty staple of Bahamian home cooking.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 34.0g

Carbs 14.0g

Fat 12.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ fish

Equipment Needed

deep skillet cutting board sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep plate

Garnishes: fresh thyme sprig, lime wedge

Accompaniments: grits, johnny cake

Ingredients

700g grouper fillets, cut into chunks
2 limes, juiced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
2 ripe tomatoes, diced
2 tbsp tomato paste
3 sprigs fresh thyme
2 cups water
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1
Season grouper with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit 15 minutes.
2
Heat oil in a deep skillet. Lightly brown fish on each side, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3
In the same skillet, saute onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
4
Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook 3 minutes, stirring.
5
Add water, thyme, and whole Scotch bonnet. Bring to a simmer.
6
Return fish to the sauce. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes until fish is tender and sauce has thickened.
7
Remove Scotch bonnet before serving. Adjust seasoning.

💡

Did You Know?

Stew fish is often called the national breakfast of the Bahamas, served with grits or johnny cake.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

deep skillet
cutting board
sharp knife

Garnishing

fresh thyme sprig, lime wedge

Accompaniments

grits, johnny cake

The Story Behind Bahamian Stew Fish

Stew fish is one of the oldest and most beloved dishes in Bahamian cuisine, dating back to the earliest fishing communities of the islands. Grouper, snapper, or any fresh catch would be simmered in a tomato-based sauce seasoned with local herbs and fiery Scotch bonnet peppers.

On the Calendar: Traditionally a morning dish, stew fish with grits remains a quintessential Bahamian breakfast, though it is enjoyed at any meal.

Legacy: Stew fish represents the deep connection between Bahamian culture and the surrounding ocean, a dish born of necessity that became a cherished tradition.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast, lunch 📜 Origins: 18th century

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