Moldovan-Style Fish Stew

Ingredients

While the original Dahomey Fish Stew from Benin is traditionally made with African spices and ingredients, the Moldovan adaptation incorporates local flavors and ingredients to suit the Moldovan cuisine. The spices used in the Moldovan version are more characteristic of Eastern European cuisine, and the addition of potatoes and bell peppers adds a distinct touch. This adaptation aims to bring the essence of the original dish while incorporating the flavors and ingredients that are readily available in Moldova. We alse have the original recipe for Dahomey Fish Stew, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fish fillets, such as carp or pike 500g (1.1 lb) fish fillets, such as carp or pike
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups (470ml) fish or vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) fish or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrot, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. 3.
   Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. 4.
   Add the paprika, dried thyme, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate the spices.
5. 5.
   Gently place the fish fillets into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Moldovan-Style Fish Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish fillets — Ensure that the fish fillets are fresh and free from any unpleasant odor. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the fish fillets in milk for 30 minutes before using them in the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the stew.
• Serve the fish stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving advice

Serve the Moldovan-Style Fish Stew in deep bowls, allowing the aromatic broth to surround the fish and vegetables. Accompany it with a slice of fresh bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color. Serve it in rustic ceramic bowls to enhance the traditional Moldovan feel.