Siga / Caldo de Quiabo e Espinafres com Camarão (Bissau Okra & Shrimp Stew) – Authentic Guinea-Bissau Recipe

Silky coastal okra and spinach stew studded with sweet Atlantic shrimp.

Country of Origin
🇬🇼 Guinea-Bissau (West Africa, Africa)
Dietary Profile
pescatarian
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Signature Staples
Plump coastal shrimp, Finely sliced okra and spinach, Steamed white rice, Red palm oil, Garlic

Ingredients for Siga / Caldo de Quiabo e Espinafres com Camarão (Bissau Okra & Shrimp Stew) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) plump coastal shrimp, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups finely sliced okra and spinach, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup steamed white rice
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with red palm oil
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Guinea-Bissau seasoning (garlic, onions, lime juice, chili)
  • 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 red palm oil for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in garlic, onions, lime juice, chili and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Guinea-Bissau's kitchen.
  3. Add plump coastal shrimp and finely sliced okra and spinach, 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 steamed white rice, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.

More Authentic Guinea-Bissau Recipes