Calulu is a traditional Angolan stew made with fish, shrimp, and leafy greens, seasoned to perfection.

How long does Calulu take to make?

Calulu takes approximately 70-85 minutes to prepare and cook.

Calulu Recipe – Angola's Delicious Stew

Name: Calulu
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 37 min
Total time: 1 h 17 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Angola
Ingredients: black pepper; catfish cut into chunks; cloves garlic; collard greens; deveined; dried shrimp; fish fillets such as tilapia; fish stock; lemon juice; okra; onion; paprika; peanuts; red palm oil; salt; shrimp; spinach; tomato paste; tomatoes; vegetable oil; water

Calulu perfumes the kitchen with red palm oil, salty seafood, and earthy greens, creating a rich, aromatic stew that tempts from first whiff. This Angolan coastal dish stems from a tradition of combining the ocean's bounty with leafy greens and ground peanuts. Families gather around the pot of calulu for Sunday dinners and holiday celebrations, its warming broth binding them together. The interplay of okra, fish, and shrimp in creamy peanut sauce defines authentic Angolan seafood comfort.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 lb fish fillets (such as tilapia or catfish), cut into chunks
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 large tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups spinach or collard greens, chopped
1 cup okra, sliced
1/4 cup red palm oil or vegetable oil
1/2 cup dried shrimp (optional)
1/4 cup peanuts, ground
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste
2 cups water or fish stock

Instructions

Marinate the Fish and Shrimp

In a bowl, toss the fish fillets and shrimp with the lemon juice, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large pot, heat the red palm oil or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and saut√© until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and the mixture becomes fragrant.

Add the Greens and Okra

Add the chopped spinach or collard greens and sliced okra to the pot. Stir well to combine with the tomato mixture. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the greens are wilted and the okra is tender.

Add the Fish and Shrimp

Gently add the marinated fish fillets and shrimp to the pot. Pour in the water or fish stock. If using dried shrimp, add them now as well.

Stir in the ground peanuts and ground paprika. Season with salt to taste.

Simmer the Calulu

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish and shrimp are cooked through and the flavors are well combined.

Serve

Ladle the calulu into bowls and serve hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice, funge (a type of Angolan porridge made from cassava flour), or bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calulu?

Calulu is an Angolan seafood stew combining fish, shrimp, okra, and leafy greens in a creamy peanut sauce. It's a celebration of coastal and garden ingredients.

Where does Calulu come from?

Calulu originates from Angola's coastal regions, reflecting the country's maritime traditions and love of seafood combined with peanut-based sauces.

What are the main ingredients in Calulu?

The stew combines fish fillets, shrimp, spinach or collard greens, okra, tomatoes, and ground peanuts with red palm oil and aromatic vegetables.

Any tips for making the best Calulu?

Marinate the fish in lemon juice first for tenderness. Add seafood near the end to prevent overcooking. Use ground peanuts for authentic creaminess and flavor.

What do you serve with Calulu?

Serve calulu with white rice, funge (cassava porridge), or cassava bread. The starchy sides soak up the delicious peanut sauce beautifully.

Calulu