Mbika

About This Recipe

Mbika (also spelled Mbica) is a speciality of Gabon and neighbouring Congo, made by wrapping a thick paste of ground pumpkin seeds (pepitas) with salted fish and aromatics inside banana leaves, then steaming or grilling the parcels. The result is a dense, fragrant cake with a rich, nutty interior. It is served as a main dish or festive starter.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 2 cupsraw pumpkin seeds, ground to a coarse paste
• 300 gsalted dried fish, soaked and flaked
• 1 largeonion, finely chopped
• 2 wholescotch bonnet peppers, minced
• 4 largebanana-leaf sections, softened over flame
• 3 tbsppalm oil

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the paste

   Combine ground pumpkin seeds, palm oil, onion, and peppers. Mix well. Season lightly (fish is already salty).

2. 2

   Fold parcels

   Place a spoonful of paste on each banana-leaf section, top with flaked fish, cover with more paste, and fold leaf into a tight parcel, securing with toothpicks or kitchen string.

3. 3

   Steam

   Place parcels in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam 35–40 minutes until the paste is set and fragrant.

4. 4

   Serve

   Unwrap at the table and serve with boiled plantain or rice.

Variations

• •

  Use freshwater catfish instead of dried fish.

• •

  Add grated ginger for extra warmth.

Storage

Wrapped parcels keep 2 days refrigerated. Steam briefly to reheat.

Frequently Asked Questions