Final answer:
Senegal's national dish is Thiéboudienne, a flavorful combination of fish, rice, and tomato sauce with vegetables. The ingredients are carefully marinated, cooked, and combined to create this culturally significant meal reflecting Senegal's culinary diversity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Senegal's national dish is Thiéboudienne, also known as 'Ceebu Jen' or 'Riz au poisson'. This iconic dish consists of fish, rice, and a flavorful tomato sauce, complemented by various vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and cassava. The cooking process starts with marinating fish in a mixture that typically includes garlic, parsley, and lemon among other ingredients. The fish is then either fried or grilled, and the sauce is prepared separately with tomato paste, onions, and the remaining marinade, building a rich base for the dish. While the fish cooks, vegetables are also simmered in the sauce until tender. Finally, rice is cooked within this aromatic concoction so that it absorbs all the flavors. This dish reflects the cultural richness and culinary diversity of Senegal, inheriting flavors from various influences including its own local resources.