Omena(Dried Small Fish)

Omena is a favourite among the Luo community. If omena is not properly cleaned it acquires a bitter taste. Fishermen  around lake Victoria dry the omena by the lakeside, before transporting it to the market. This makes the  omena gather sand. You need to wash this sand off the omena. I will show you how to clean omena. If you follow this recipe, your omena will taste good.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Two cups of omena
• Two large tomatoes
• One large onion
• Cooking oil
• Salt
• Water
• Milk or coconut cream
• Freshly ground garlic

HOW TO PREPARE OMENA

1. Boil water the add fish into it.
2. Let the omena boil for 30 minutes to rid them of any dirt and scales they might have.
3. Do not drain the water. Let the dirt settle at the bottom of the sufuria (sauce pan), then carefully scoop out the fish.
4. Deep dry the fish for about two or three minutes or until they begin to brown.
5. Put them in a bowl lined with paper towels to absorb the extra oil. This will also prevent breaking when they are being stewed.
6. Heat oil in a pan and add the chopped onions.
7. Follow this with freshly ground garlic and salt.
8. Cook for about three to five minutes in low heat while stirring.
9. Add chopped tomatoes and let them cook in the same low heat until ready. Stir to make thick paste. If you are using any spices, add them at this point.
10. Add the deep fried omena to the mixture and stir gently.
11. Add either half a cup of hot water or milk or even coconut cream.
12. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes.

SERVING TIPS
Good with ugali. Add vegetables like sukuma wiki, kunde or managu.

Smoked Fish Recipe? Go here