Samaki Wa Kukuango (Steamed Whole Fish with Sauteed Onions)

Ingredients

• •1 4 to 6-pound whole fish that will fit into a roasting pan
• •2 tablespoons salt
• •1 teaspoon garlic powder, fresh or crushed
• •1 teaspoon coarse red pepper
• •1 cup onions
• •1 cup tomatoes
• •2 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. 1Scale and clean the fish. Remove head if desired and cut gashes 2 inches apart across the entire fish.
2. 2In a small bowl, combine salt, garlic powder and coarse red pepper.
3. 3Rub these seasonings into the gashes of the fish. Allow to stand for 15 minutes.
4. 4In a 7-inch skillet, sauté the tomatoes with the butter.
5. 5Place the fish on a rack in a roasting pan. Fill the bottom of the pan with water up to the rack.
6. 6Spread the onion mixture all over the fish.
7. 7Simmer or bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 40 minutes or until the fish is done.
8. 8Remove the lid and permit the water to evaporate or reduce by one-quarter.
9. 9Remove the fish carefully to a large platter and spread the onion mixture over the top of the fish as a garnish.
10. 10Serve with rice at the side, with fish sauce and with lemon slices.