Liboke ya Mbisi Congolese: fish in foil for Christmas

Liboke ya Mbisi is a traditional dish from Congo, perfect for celebrating the Christmas holidays. This dish consists of fish, usually tilapia or captain, marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs, then cooked in banana leaves to give it a unique, slightly smoky taste. Naturally gluten-free, Liboke ya Mbisi is a light and exotic option that will please your guests. This dish is not only delicious, but it also allows you to discover the authentic flavors of Congolese cuisine.

Preparation time 15 mins

Cooking time 45 mins

Rest time 30 mins

Total time 1 hr 30 mins

Cooking method: traditional

Difficulty: beginner

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 whole fish (tilapia, captain or white fish of your choice)
1 finely chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 green pepper, cut into small cubes
1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
1 bunch fresh basil or sorrel leaves, chopped
1 red pepper, finely chopped (optional)
1 piece of fresh ginger (about 2 cm)
1 Lime juice
2 Tbsp palm oil (or vegetable oil)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Banana leaves (or aluminum foil if necessary)

Preparation

1
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix the onion, garlic, pepper, parsley, basil (or sorrel), grated ginger, chili pepper (if using), lime juice and 'oil. Add salt and pepper, then mix well to form a marinade.
2
Season the fish: Rinse the fish and pat dry with paper towels. Lightly score the skin of the fish so that the flavors of the marinade penetrate well. Coat the fish generously with the marinade, making sure to get it well inside and on all exterior parts. Leave to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to infuse.
3
Prepare the banana leaves: Pass the banana leaves over a flame or in hot water to soften them and prevent them from tearing when wrapping.
4
Wrap the fish: Place the marinated fish in the center of a large banana leaf. Fold the edges to form a tightly closed foil. If necessary, use string to hold the foil in place. If you don't have banana leaves, you can use aluminum foil.
5
Cooking Liboke ya Mbisi: In the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the fish wrapped in foil on a baking tray. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until the fish is tender and cooked through. Steam: steam your papillote for 15 to 20 minutes.
6
Serve: Serve the Liboke ya Mbisi directly in its banana leaf for a traditional and colorful presentation. Serve it with fried plantains, cassava or rice for a complete meal.

Keywords: Liboke ya Mbisi, Congo recipe, gluten-free fish recipe

Read it online: https://glutenevasion.fr/recette/liboke-ya-mbisi-congolais-un-poisson-en-papillote-pour-noel/