Page 106 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 10

WHOLENESS

Samaki wa KUPAKA

Isabella Baird

Samaki wa Kupaka can be loosely translated to mean Coated Fish. Samaki is the Swahili
word for Fish and Kupaka means, literally, to apply.
This dish is an East African delicacy that is a staple in every family up and down the East
Coast, from Mombasa, to Malindi, Lamu and all the way to Zanzibar! A delicious smoky
flavorful grilled fish which is then coated with a rich, thick and creamy tamarind flavored
coconut sauce. This dish is particularly enjoyable with Coconut Rice but can also be served
with Chapati or Naan and a side of Kachumabari (a tomato, onion, lime & fresh coriander
salsa).
Fish
Instructions:
•De-scale and gut one whole fish. Wash the fish thoroughly with water mixed with a bit of
salt and vinegar or lemon. You can even marinate the fish in this salty vinegar/lemon mix
for about half an hour as it reduces the fish smell. Drain and pat the fish dry. Make 2-3 slits
on the fleshy part of the fish, on both sides at 2-3 inch intervals. This helps make sure your
fish will get cooked properly all the way through and absorb the delicious flavors from the
seasoning.

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