Egusi Spinach

Egusi Spinach Recipe from Cameroon - Savory and Flavorful Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Cameroon | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Egusi Spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of spinach, tomatoes, onions, and ground egusi seeds. This West African dish is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

History

Egusi Spinach has its origins in West Africa, where egusi seeds are commonly used in cooking. The combination of spinach and egusi creates a flavorful and hearty dish that is enjoyed by many in the region.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) spinach
6 tbsp peanut oil
4 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 small cloves of garlic, crushed
1 small slice ginger, finely chopped
0.25 lb (113 g) ground egusi
0.67 cup water
hot pepper, to taste
salt, to taste

How to prepare

Slice the spinach into thin pieces, working with a small bundle at a time.
Place the sliced spinach into a large bowl and pour a kettleful of boiling water over it. Immediately drain the water.
Allow the spinach to cool slightly, then press it in a sieve or colander to remove any excess water. Set it aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the egusi with enough water to create a paste.
Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and add the tomatoes, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir well and fry together for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the egusi paste, water, hot pepper, and salt to the saucepan. Cook for approximately 10 minutes.
Add the spinach to the sauce and stir well. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve the dish with boiled rice or root vegetables.

Variations

Add some diced bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Substitute the spinach with kale or collard greens for a different twist on the dish.
Try adding some coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the spinach into thin pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Pressing the spinach in a sieve or colander after blanching helps to remove excess water and prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Egusi Spinach pairs well with boiled rice or root vegetables. You can also enjoy it with a side of plantains or yams for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the spinach helps to soften it and remove any bitterness.

- Frying the tomatoes, onions, and spices together creates a flavorful base for the dish.

- Cooking the egusi paste with water helps to thicken the sauce and bind the ingredients together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable oil instead of peanut oil if desired.

- If you can't find egusi seeds, you can substitute with ground pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

Make Ahead Tips

Egusi Spinach can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with some chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Egusi Spinach pairs well with a side of fried plantains or yams. You can also serve it with some grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Egusi Spinach contains approximately 200 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Egusi Spinach is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The peanut oil used in this recipe adds healthy fats to the dish. Each serving of Egusi Spinach contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Egusi seeds are a rich source of protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians. Each serving of Egusi Spinach contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Egusi Spinach is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a meal.

Summary

Egusi Spinach is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and full of vitamins and minerals. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I sat at the table with my dear friend, Amina. Amina was a woman of many talents, but it was her cooking that always impressed me the most. On that particular day, she had prepared a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before - Egusi Spinach.

As I watched her expertly mix the ingredients together, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe. Amina smiled and began to explain how she had learned to make this delicious dish from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. She told me about the traditional Nigerian spices and flavors that went into the dish, and I was immediately intrigued.

Amina generously shared her recipe with me, and from that moment on, Egusi Spinach became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and any time I wanted to treat myself to a taste of home.

The key to a good Egusi Spinach, Amina told me, was in the preparation. The first step was to grind the egusi seeds into a smooth paste, adding just the right amount of water to create a thick, creamy consistency. This paste would be the base of the dish, giving it a rich and nutty flavor that was truly unique.

Next, I would sauté onions, garlic, and peppers in a generous amount of palm oil until they were soft and fragrant. Then, I would add the egusi paste to the pot, along with chopped spinach and a few cups of chicken broth. I would let the mixture simmer for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together and the spinach to wilt into a silky sauce.

The final touch was a sprinkling of ground crayfish and dried shrimp, which added a salty, umami flavor that elevated the dish to new heights. I would serve the Egusi Spinach over a bed of fluffy white rice, the perfect accompaniment to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Over the years, I have made my own tweaks and additions to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and vegetables to create my own unique version of Egusi Spinach. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always takes me back to that sunny day in Amina's kitchen, where I first fell in love with its bold flavors and comforting warmth.

Now, as I pass down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, I hope that they too will come to appreciate the magic of Egusi Spinach. It is more than just a dish - it is a connection to my past, a reminder of the friends and family who have shaped me into the cook I am today.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen, stirring a pot of simmering Egusi Spinach, I am filled with gratitude for the recipes and traditions that have been passed down to me. They are more than just words on a page - they are a link to my heritage, a taste of home that will always hold a special place in my heart.