Omena (as we call it in my homeland) is one of the finest delicacies you can enjoy when visiting the lake region. Nowadays, it’s taken by people worldwide, so don’t be shocked to find it in a renowned restaurant menu, but with a different name like dagaa or silver cyprinid. I can’t recall the first time I had it; I think I was a young then. But with time, I have grown to love them, especially the well-fried ones, although I only take them occasionally.

Several people cook omena differently, which could be due to cultural differences. But in the end, all that matters is cooking them just enough to reap the health benefits that they offer. You can cook silver cyprinids by deeply frying them and then throwing them in mashed tomatoes and seasoning for added flavor.

Follow through with the recipe to make the perfect wet fry omena.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of dried silver cyprinid (omena)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped or blended
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced/ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder(optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Chopped cilantro, coriander, or parsley for garnish (optional)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Serving: 2

Instructions

  1. Preparation:
    • Run hot water over the silver cyprinid (omena) for two minutes, and then rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
    •  Drain the excess water and squeeze out excess moisture from the omena using a clean cloth or paper towel.
    •  Set aside 5-10 minutes in a wide dish to dry and let air dry.
  2. Deep Frying:
    • In a deep pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
    •  Add the squeezed omena to the hot oil and deep fry until they turn crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them; they can become too hard or even burn.
  3. Combining:
    • In another frying pan, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and add onions.
    • Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent. Add preferable spices (turmeric, and minced garlic/garlic powder) and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
    • Add the tomatoes, paprika, salt, and chili. Mix and let simmer for 2 minutes.
    •  Add the fried omena into the pan with the onion-tomato mixture.
    •  Mix everything gently, ensuring the omena are well coated with the seasoned onions and tomatoes.
    •  Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Serving:
    • Once the wet fry omena is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat.
    •  Garnish with chopped cilantro, coriander, or parsley if desired.
    •  Serve hot as a delicious side dish with ugali, rice, or any other accompaniment of your choice.

Enjoy your homemade, wet fry omena! Remember, you can adjust the seasoning and spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Christine Rombe
Latest posts by Christine Rombe (see all)
10 comments
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