Ewa Dodo

Ewa Dodo Recipe from Niger with Black-Eyed Peas and Tuna

Region / culture: Niger | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ewa Dodo is a popular Nigerian dish made with black-eyed peas and fried plantains. This flavorful and hearty dish is a staple in Nigerian cuisine and is often enjoyed as a main course.

History

Ewa Dodo has its origins in Nigeria, where it is a traditional dish that is enjoyed by many. The combination of black-eyed peas and fried plantains creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 cups dried black-eyed peas
4 cups boiling water
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 large tomato, chopped
1.5 - 3 tsp crushed red pepper
2 tbsp tomato paste
3 tbsp oil
1 x 7 oz (198 g) can of tuna or 2 x 4.5 oz cans of shrimp
3 large plantains or bananas, cut in 0.25 inch slices
0.5 tsp salt
1 cup oil for frying

How to prepare

Wash the peas in cold running water. Then, cover them with boiling water and let them boil for 2 minutes.
Remove the peas from heat and let them soak for 1 to 2 hours. After soaking, simmer the peas in the same water until they become tender, which usually takes about 2 hours.
Next, add the onion, tomato, and pepper to the peas. Cook this mixture for 15 minutes.
After that, add the tomato paste, oil, and fish to the peas. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes without stirring.
Remove the cover, stir the mixture, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Take the plantains or bananas and sprinkle them with salt. Deep-fry them in oil until they turn golden brown.
Once fried, drain the plantains or bananas on absorbent paper.
Finally, serve the black-eyed peas (ewa) with the plantains (dodo).

Variations

Add bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the black-eyed peas before cooking to ensure they are tender.

- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Make sure to fry the plantains until they are golden brown for the perfect texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ewa Dodo can be served on its own as a main course, or paired with rice or bread for a complete meal. It is often enjoyed with a side of fried plantains or a salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the black-eyed peas until tender.

- Fry the plantains until golden brown.

- Simmer the peas with the tomato paste and shrimp for a flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried for a quicker preparation.

- Substitute plantains with ripe bananas for a sweeter twist on the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ewa Dodo in a large bowl with the fried plantains arranged on top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Ewa Dodo pairs well with a side of rice, bread, or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed with a side of steamed vegetables or grilled meat for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Ewa Dodo 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

The calorie content of Ewa Dodo will vary depending on portion size and ingredients used. On average, a serving of Ewa Dodo is around 300-400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Black-eyed peas are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. The plantains also contribute to the carbohydrate content of the dish.

Fats

The oil used for frying the plantains adds to the fat content of the dish. It is important to use oil in moderation to keep the dish healthy.

Proteins

Black-eyed peas are a good source of plant-based protein, making Ewa Dodo a nutritious and filling meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Black-eyed peas are rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium. The tomatoes and onions in the dish also provide additional nutrients.

Alergens

Ewa Dodo contains shrimp, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Ewa Dodo is a nutritious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a balanced meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

Summary

Ewa Dodo is a delicious and nutritious Nigerian dish made with black-eyed peas and fried plantains. This flavorful and hearty meal is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Ewa Dodo. It was a hot summer day in Nigeria, and I was visiting my dear friend Aunty Funke. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on refreshing hibiscus tea and chatting about our favorite dishes. Aunty Funke suddenly got a twinkle in her eye and said, "I have a special recipe to share with you today, my dear. It's a traditional Nigerian dish called Ewa Dodo."

I was intrigued and excited to learn a new recipe, especially one that was considered a delicacy in Nigerian cuisine. Aunty Funke began to gather the ingredients and explained the significance of each one. "Ewa Dodo is a savory and flavorful dish made with black-eyed peas, ripe plantains, bell peppers, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices," she said with a smile.

As she started to cook, I watched intently, taking in every step and technique she used. Aunty Funke's hands moved with grace and precision as she sautéed the onions and bell peppers, boiled the black-eyed peas until tender, and fried the ripe plantains to a golden crisp.

The aromas wafting from the kitchen were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish. Finally, Aunty Funke plated the Ewa Dodo, garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. The colors and textures of the dish were so vibrant and inviting.

I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a place of pure culinary bliss. The flavors danced on my taste buds – the sweetness of the plantains, the earthiness of the black-eyed peas, and the heat of the spices all melded together perfectly. It was a dish that was both comforting and exotic, a true representation of Nigerian cuisine.

After savoring every last bite, I thanked Aunty Funke for sharing her recipe with me. She smiled and said, "Cooking is a form of love, my dear. When you share a meal with someone, you are sharing a piece of yourself." Those words resonated with me, and I knew that this recipe for Ewa Dodo would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Ewa Dodo for my family and friends, each time infusing it with love and memories of that special day in Aunty Funke's kitchen. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to create a version that is uniquely mine.

As I pass on this recipe to future generations, I hope that they too will find joy in preparing and sharing Ewa Dodo with their loved ones. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also the soul. And through this traditional Nigerian dish, I have learned the true power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.