Over 30,000 Indians were brought in for labor during this project, and many stayed on in East Africa, the beginnings of today's large Asian population. These traders and conquerors all influenced the cultures of this part of the world. One of the strongest influences on the foods of the region is the Asian Indians. Perhaps this is because they came not to conquer but to live, mingling together and blending into the life of the indigenous Africans. Their influence on the food of the region is huge.
Indian restaurants are common, and curry and masala are practically household words.
The first featured recipe is a nod to the Arab kingdom which ruled the East African coast from Zanzibar. The exotic and elegant fish cooked in coconut milk reflects the bounteous resources of the coastal lands. You can serve the fish with a classic Indian bread, the chapati. This version also uses a touch of coconut milk which gives it a rich taste and texture. In a large skillet, combine coconut milk, water, bay leaves, peppercorns, cloves and salt.