Bouillon de Poisson aux Bananes Plantains (Gabonese Lemongrass & Basil Fish Broth) – Authentic Gabon Recipe

Ingredients for Bouillon de Poisson aux Bananes Plantains (Gabonese Lemongrass & Basil Fish Broth) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) chunks of firm white fish, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups green and ripe plantain pieces, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup ripe tomatoes
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with lemongrass
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Gabon seasoning (country basil, ginger, garlic, lime)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and lemongrass for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in country basil, ginger, garlic, lime and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Gabon's kitchen.
3. Add chunks of firm white fish and green and ripe plantain pieces, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in ripe tomatoes, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.