Pescado con tres salsas – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
A spirited celebration of Equatorial Guinean cuisine, Pescado con Tres Salsas is a seafood delight that showcases the rich maritime flavors of the region. The dish combines the freshness of the catch with vibrant, contrasting sauces, each representing a unique culinary tradition: a tangy tomato sauce, a creamy peanut sauce, and a zesty green herb sauce. This harmonious blend captures the essence of Central African cuisine, where the ocean’s bounty meets the vibrant landscapes.
Ingredients
- white fish fillets – 4 fillets / 600 g
- tomatoes, chopped – 2 cups / 400 g
- onion, finely chopped – 1 medium / 150 g
- garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- peanut butter – 1/2 cup / 125 g
- coconut milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
- cilantro, chopped – 1/2 cup / 30 g
- lemon juice – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- olive oil – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- chili powder – 1 tsp / 5 g
Instructions
- Season the fish fillets with salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the fish until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- For the tomato sauce, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
- For the peanut sauce, mix peanut butter with coconut milk in a saucepan and warm over low heat until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Prepare the green herb sauce by blending cilantro, lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt into a smooth paste.
- Serve the fish with all three sauces drizzled over or on the side.
Substitutions
- white fish fillets -> tilapia or cod
- peanut butter -> almond butter
- coconut milk -> heavy cream
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the fish in lemon juice and spices for 30 minutes before cooking for added flavor.
- Roast the tomatoes before using to enrich their flavor.
- Add fresh chili or hot sauce to the herb sauce for extra heat.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.

Equatorial Guinea