Coastal Classic

Mufete

Grilled fish with beans, cassava, plantains and the spirit of sharing

Mufete is one of the most iconic Angolan dishes, a full plate of grilled fish served with palm oil beans, boiled plantains, cassava and sweet potatoes. It is colourful, nourishing and deeply satisfying, often shared during family gatherings or festive weekends.

Grilled fish Shared meal Weekend favourite

The fish used is often ginga, a small, affordable fish similar to sardines or mackerel, loved for its flavour and simplicity.

With beans, cassava, plantains and sweet potatoes on the plate, Mufete brings together texture, comfort and generosity in one unmistakably Angolan meal.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 whole fresh fish, ginga, tilapia or grouper work well
  • 2 cups of cooked black-eyed beans
  • 3 tablespoons of red palm oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Boiled plantains, sweet potatoes and cassava, to serve

Method

Preparation

  1. Clean the fish, season with salt, pepper and a little garlic, and grill it over charcoal or in the oven until golden and cooked through.
  2. For the beans, saute the onion, garlic and tomatoes in palm oil until soft. Add the cooked beans and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavours.
  3. Boil the plantains, cassava and sweet potatoes separately until soft.
  4. Assemble the plate by placing the grilled fish in the centre, surrounded by the beans, cassava, sweet potatoes and plantains. Drizzle extra palm oil over everything if desired.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy with friends or family. This dish is made to be shared.

Serving idea

How to enjoy it

Mufete is best enjoyed as a generous shared meal, especially at weekends or during family gatherings. The contrast between grilled fish, beans and starchy sides is what makes it so satisfying.