Mukeke wa Tanganyika (Burundian Grilled Lake Fish)

Name: Mukeke wa Tanganyika (Burundian Grilled Lake Fish)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Burundi
Ingredients: 4 whole mukeke or tilapia fish, cleaned; 3 tbsp oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

4 servings15 min prep20 min cookEasy Burundi

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Mukeke wa Tanganyika (Burundian Grilled Lake Fish)

Story updated September 17, 2026

Mukeke wa Tanganyika, grilled Nile perch or similar lake fish from Lake Tanganyika, reflects Burundi's reliance on the lake as a major source of food and livelihood for communities along its shores. Simply grilled and seasoned, it's a straightforward showcase of the freshwater fish that has fed the region for generations.

Ingredients

Scale:· 4 servings

4 whole mukeke or tilapia fish, cleaned
3 tbsp oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1Score the fish a few times on each side and season with salt and pepper.
2Rub the fish with garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and oil.
3Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
4Grill over medium-hot coals, turning once, for 8-10 minutes per side until the flesh flakes easily.
5Serve hot with ubugali or plantains.

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