Silver Fish -‘Mukene’Delicacy

In todays Episode we shall look at silver fish or what we locally refer to as ‘mukene’.

The silver cyprinid (Rastrineobola argentea) also known as the Lake Victoria sardine, or silver fish-mukene or omena (native language), dagaa (swahili language) is a species of pelagic, freshwater ray-finned fish in the carp family, Cyprinidae from East Africa. It is the only member of the genus Rastrineobola.

Importance of Eating Silver Fish Or Mukene

Dr Edwin Agaba says unlike tilapia and Nile perch, silver fish is packed with amino acids that help in boosting body immunity. It’s vitamin A and E contents, he adds maintain good vision especially for the elderly and children with eye problems. It also helps in the maintenance of a smooth skin and healthy eye tissue.

Mukene has polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6, which aid the treatment of cardiac (heart-related) disease.

For children, it is recommended as a food for boosting memory to help them perform well in class. Silver fish is rich in Omega 3 and 6, which plays a crucial role in brain function and development.

It has proteins that are essential for building and repairing muscles, organs, skin, hair and other body tissues.

It contains calcium that is good for strengthening the bones.

Lastly; certain type of silver fish locally know as Enkejjye (Sprat)  relieves symptoms of measles in children at a tender age.

How to Prepare Silver Fish / Mukene In Uganda.

1. Ingredients may include; salt, onions, cooking oil, green pepper, carrots and tomatoes.
2. Put the silver fish on a tray and sort out unwanted things like stones.
3. Roost the silver fish over low heat until it browns. Don’t over heat.
4. Wash it thoroughly in running water and soak it in clean water for 30 minutes so that any dirt settles down.
5. Place a saucepan on fire, add oil and tomatoes.

1. When tomatoes are ready (the oil comes on top) then add salt and other vegetables as desired.
2. Add the silver fish then pour water depending on the amount of silver fish you are preparing.
3. Leave it to boil for awhile and then add in the sliced small sized onions and salt. Let it boil for about 30 minutes at low heat then serve as desired.

Serve as an independent meal or as an addition to another sauce like beans, vegetables or groundnut stew.