Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsUmana YanaFish Asa Wat Recipe

Fish Asa Wat Recipe

Inspired by Umana Yana
Time45m
Serves4

Fish asa wat is a flavorful Ethiopian stew made with tender fish simmered in a spicy, aromatic sauce infused with berbere spice and herbs.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fish Asa Wat Ingredients

Method

Fish Asa Wat Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Fish

    Clean the fish thoroughly and cut it into large pieces. Marinate with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 15 minutes.

  2. 2

    Cook the Base

    In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Add the berbere spice mix and salt, stirring well to combine.

  4. 4

    Simmer the Sauce

    Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  5. 5

    Add the Fish

    Carefully add the marinated fish pieces to the pot. Cover and let it cook for 15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

  6. 6

    Garnish and Serve

    Once the fish is cooked, sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with injera or rice.

More from Umana Yana