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Courbiche (Lake Chad Spiced Fish Stew)
A vibrant Lake Chad fisherman's stew of firm Nile perch simmered in a spiced tomato-okra broth with ground sumbala.
The story
Hailing from the waters of the Lake Chad basin, Courbiche is an iconic everyday stew perfected by the indigenous Buduma and Kotoko fishing communities. Prepared following the dawn netting of fresh freshwater fish, the dish unites the morning catch with sun-ripened tomatoes and indigenous wild herbs. Technically distinct from coastal fish stews, Courbiche incorporates ground soumbala (fermented locust bean) and sliced tender okra, which simultaneously balances acidity and naturally thickens the savory broth.
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