Whole fish marinated with tomatoes, onions, and spices, wrapped tightly in banana leaves and steamed over charcoal, infusing the flesh with a smoky, herbaceous aroma.
Ingredients
4 whole tilapia, cleaned and scored
4 large banana leaves, softened over flame
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
2 large onions, sliced into rings
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 scotch bonnet peppers, sliced
Juice of 2 lemons
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1Score the fish on both sides and season with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic.
2Soften banana leaves by passing them briefly over an open flame until pliable.
3Lay each fish on a banana leaf. Top with sliced tomatoes, onion rings, and scotch bonnet.
4Drizzle with vegetable oil. Wrap tightly and tie securely with kitchen twine.
5Place packages on a charcoal grill or in a steamer. Cook for 30-40 minutes.
6Unwrap at the table for a dramatic presentation. Serve with fufu or rice.
Did You Know?
Congolese fishermen along the Congo River have been wrapping their catch in banana leaves for centuries — the technique doubles as both cooking method and portable packaging.