Samak (tonj Tamarind Fish)

Samak (Tonj Tamarind Fish) is a traditional South Sudanese dish that features a tangy and flavorful tamarind sauce served with fish. This dish is a popular choice for special occasions and gatherings.

Samak (tonj Tamarind Fish)

Ingredients

  • 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish)
  • 1 cup tamarind paste
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups water

Instructions

  1. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
  2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, tamarind paste, ground coriander, ground cumin, and remaining paprika to the pan. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in the water and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Return the cooked fish fillets to the pan, spooning the tamarind sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the fish through.
  7. Once the fish is heated through, remove the pan from the heat and serve the Samak (Tonj Tamarind Fish) hot with steamed rice or flatbread.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
12g

Supplies

Large pan Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Samak (Tonj Tamarind Fish) with a side of steamed rice and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper to the tamarind sauce for an extra kick of heat.

Cost

$15