Imintesa are a type of small dried fish found in Zambia. They are tasty when both fresh and dried. They can be enjoyed as a protein dish with some nshima (pap) and a side vegetable dish such as pumpkin leaves (Chibwabwa).
These dry fishes have a smoked fish aroma that makes them very tasty. They are also nutritious. According to an article by Legacy Food Storage, “most of the fishes that are available in dried form come with very less amount of cholesterol or salt but with much amount of the minerals as well as vitamins that are necessary for the development of one’s body. Saturated fat that is present in dried fish is also very less and so it protects heart and also the issues related with higher blood pressure. Most of the individuals may find this as a great food to be included in the diet so that it is possible to fight with heart diseases, diabetes and also obesity”.
How to cook Imintesa
Here is the recipe below for the dried ones.
Ingredients
- 2 Handfuls Imintesa
- 1 Medium Tomato
- 1 Medium Onion
- 1 Green pepper
- 5 Tbsp Cooking oil
Instructions
- Put the Imintesa in warm water and rest it for 5 minutes
- Rinse in cold water to remove dirt and dust particles
- Put cooking oil on the pan and fry
- Remove from the pan and add some tomatoes, onions, green pepper and salt to make gravy
- Put them back on the pan together with the gravy and stir
- It is now ready to serve
- Enjoy!