How to Make Cape Malay Pickled Fish - A Step-by-Step Guide

Cape Malay Pickled Fish is a traditional South African dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This flavorful and aromatic dish has its roots in the Cape Malay community, which is known for its fusion of Asian, African, and European flavors.

The dish is typically made with white fish that is marinated in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and sugar, then pickled for a few days to allow the flavors to develop. The result is a tangy and slightly sweet fish dish that is perfect for servi...

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Ingredients

  • ½ cup vegetable oil for frying
  • 3 pounds cod fillets, cut into 2 to 3 ounce portions
  • salt to taste
  • 2 large onions, peeled and sliced into rings
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 red chile pepper, seeded and sliced lengthwise
  • 3 large bay leaves
  • 8 whole black peppercorns
  • 4 whole allspice berries
  • 2 cups red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 day 30 mins
  • Total Time: 1 day 1 hr 25 mins
  • Servings: 12

  • Gather all ingredients.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season fish with salt and fry in the hot skillet until fish is browned and flakes easily with a fork, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  • Add onions and garlic to the skillet and cook over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add chile pepper, bay leaves, peppercorns, and allspice berries, then pour in vinegar and water and bring to a boil. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved. Season with curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Taste and add brown sugar if desired.
  • Arrange layers of fish and pickling mixture in a serving dish. Pour in pickling liquid to cover the top layer. Let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
  • Nutrition

    238 cal.

    • Total Fat: 10g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 49mg
    • Sodium: 67mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 16g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Protein: 21g
    • Vitamin C: 3mg
    • Calcium: 44mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 590mg