Senegal's Secret (Thiébou Tchep)

Thiébou Tchep, also known as Senegal's Secret, is a traditional Senegalese dish that features fish and rice cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This dish is a staple in Senegalese cuisine and is loved for its rich and aromatic flavors.

Senegal's Secret (Thiébou Tchep)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fish (such as red snapper or grouper)
  • 2 cups rice
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 eggplant, sliced
  • 1 cabbage, cut into wedges
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Season the fish with salt and pepper, then set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and tomatoes, and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and garlic powder, and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the water, carrots, eggplant, cabbage, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, then add the seasoned fish to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Remove the fish from the pot and set aside. Add the rice to the pot, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
  7. Serve the Thiébou Tchep with the fish on top and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Thiébou Tchep is traditionally served with a side of spicy pepper sauce and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the fish with tofu or plant-based protein of your choice.

Cost

$20