Ghanaian-Style Tangy Tilapia

Ingredients

In this Ghanaian adaptation, we substitute the original Chinese ingredients with Ghanaian flavors. The dish retains its tangy profile but incorporates local spices and herbs to create a unique Ghanaian twist. The use of tilapia, a popular fish in Ghana, adds a local touch to the recipe. We alse have the original recipe for West Lake Vinegar Fish, so you can check it out.

• 4 tilapia fillets 4 tilapia fillets
• 1 cup (240ml) vinegar 1 cup (240ml) vinegar
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vinegar, garlic, ginger, chili powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fillets are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the tilapia fillets from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the fillets in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. 6.
   Remove the fried tilapia from the pan and set aside.
7. 7.
   In the same pan, add the sliced onions and diced tomatoes. Cook until the onions are translucent and the tomatoes have softened.
8. 8.
   Add the remaining marinade to the pan and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. 9.
   Place the fried tilapia fillets back into the pan with the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10. 10.
    Serve the Ghanaian-Style Tangy Tilapia hot with steamed rice or boiled yam.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tilapia — Ensure the tilapia fillets are fresh and free from any unpleasant odor. If tilapia is not available, you can substitute it with any firm white fish such as cod or haddock.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce during the simmering process.
• Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Ghanaian-Style Tangy Tilapia with a side of steamed rice or boiled yam. The tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of the tilapia, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fried tilapia fillets on a platter and pour the tangy sauce over them. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a side of steamed rice or boiled yam. The vibrant colors of the dish will make it visually appealing and appetizing.