Smoked Fish Stew I

Ingredients

 * 2 Ibs. SMOKED FISH
 * 1/2 Ib. ONIONS
 * 1/4 cup VEGETABLE OIL
 * 1 Ib. FRESH TOMATOES
 * 4 Tbs. TOMATO PASTE
 * 1/2 tsp. CRUSHED RED PEPPER (optional)
 * 1 quart WATER

Directions

 * 1) In a 4-quart saucepan saute: 1/2 Ib. ONIONS, thinly sliced in 1/4 cup VEGETABLE OIL until soft but not brown.
 * Add: 1 Ib. FRESH TOMATOES cut in 1-inch pieces, 4 Tbs. TOMATO PASTE, 1/2 tsp. CRUSHED RED PEPPER and 1 quart WATER.
 * 1) Simmer with cover on for 15 minutes.
 * 2) Debone 2 Ibs. SMOKED FISH (if smoked herring is used, soak it for 1 hour to remove excess salt).
 * 3) Add the deboned, flaked fish and simmer for 10 minutes longer.
 * 4) Correct the Seasoning with salt (if needed) and pepper.
 * 5) Add water if necessary to bring to stew consistency.
 * 6) Serve with RICE.