Zambian Nshima with Collard Greens and Grilled Tilapia

Name: Zambian Nshima with Collard Greens and Grilled Tilapia
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 cups cornmeal (finely ground); 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 bunches collard greens, washed and chopped; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tilapia fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon coriander powder

A Traditional Zambian Delight

Enjoy a hearty meal of Nshima served with savory collard greens and flavorful grilled tilapia, a traditional dish from Zambia.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Nshima

2 cups cornmeal (finely ground)

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

For the Collard Greens

2 bunches collard greens, washed and chopped

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grilled Tilapia

4 tilapia fillets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lemon, juiced

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon coriander powder

Preparation

Prepping the Tilapia

Prep Tilapia Fillets

Rinse the tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.

Marinate the Tilapia

Marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper; set aside for 30 minutes.

Preheat Grill

Preheat the grill to a medium-high heat.

Ensure the tilapia is fully cooked before serving.

Preparing the Collard Greens

Heat Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Sauté Aromatics

Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.

Blanch the collard greens before sautéing to retain their vibrant color.

Cook Greens

Add collard greens, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until tender.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Nshima

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot, then slowly whisk in the cornmeal and salt until thick and smooth.

Timing: 30 min • Heat: Medium

Grilling the Tilapia

Grill the marinated tilapia for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Timing: 10 min • Heat: Medium-high

Finish the Collard Greens

Allow the greens to cook slowly to absorb all flavors.

Timing: 20 min

Plating & Serving