Greens with Green Pepper
Greens with Green Pepper Recipe from Senegal | Ingredients: Onion, Tomato, Spinach, Peanut
Introduction
This recipe for Greens with Green Pepper is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a healthy meal. The combination of greens, green pepper, and peanuts creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
History
This recipe has its roots in African cuisine, where greens are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The addition of green pepper and peanuts adds a unique twist to this traditional recipe, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients
- oil for frying
- One onion, finely chopped
- One sweet green pepper (or bell pepper), chopped
- One ripe tomato, chopped (or canned tomato, drained)
- One to two pounds spinach, cleaned, stems removed—or -- cassava leaves (Feuilles de manioc), kale, collards, turnip greens or similar; cleaned, stems removed, and parboiled
- salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper or red pepper (to taste)
- One-half cup peanut butter (or peanuts)
How to prepare
Homemade Peanut Paste with Peanuts
- Remove the shells from the peanuts. Roast the peanuts on a baking sheet in a hot oven or in a large skillet on the stove, stirring often. Then, remove the skins. Place the peanuts in a saucepan and add enough water to partially cover them. Bring to a slow boil, stirring often. Reduce the heat. Crush the peanuts with a potato masher.
- In a large saucepan, heat oil and fry the onion and green pepper until they begin to become tender. Add tomato and spinach or greens along with a quarter cup of water. Reduce the heat and cover. Simmer until everything is tender, stirring occasionally. Add spices and peanut butter or peanut paste. Reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting and stir until the sauce is smooth.
- Serve with Fufu.
Variations
- Add some diced chicken or tofu for an extra protein boost.
- Swap out the greens for kale or collard greens for a different flavor profile.
- Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different twist on the sauce.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to parboil the greens before adding them to the dish to ensure they are tender and cooked through.
- Roasting the peanuts before making the peanut paste will enhance their flavor and add a delicious nuttiness to the dish.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your taste preferences - add more for a spicier dish or less for a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served with Fufu, a traditional African dish made from starchy vegetables like yams or cassava. The creamy texture of the Fufu pairs perfectly with the flavorful greens and peppers in this dish.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to parboil the greens before adding them to the dish to ensure they are tender and cooked through.
- Roasting the peanuts before making the peanut paste will enhance their flavor and add a delicious nuttiness to the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have peanuts, you can use almond butter or cashew butter instead.
- Feel free to use any type of greens you have on hand, such as kale, collard greens, or spinach.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve this dish in a large bowl with a side of Fufu for a traditional and authentic presentation. Garnish with chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of red pepper for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer. The flavors of the greens and peppers are complemented by the refreshing and light taste of these beverages.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this dish contains approximately 300 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
Carbohydrates
This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day. The greens and peppers are rich in complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly and provide a steady source of energy.
Fats
The peanuts in this dish are a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are important for heart health and can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Proteins
Peanuts are also a good source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and filling meal. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, as well as for overall health and wellbeing.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate from the greens and peppers. Peanuts are also a good source of magnesium, which is important for bone health and muscle function.
Alergens
This recipe contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.
Summary
Overall, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option for a healthy meal. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Summary
Greens with Green Pepper is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a healthy meal. The combination of greens, green pepper, and peanuts creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds. Serve with Fufu for a traditional and authentic meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a simple yet flavorful dish called Greens with Green Pepper. The vibrant colors and the fresh ingredients called out to me, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.
I first came across this recipe many years ago, during a visit to my friend's house. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of sautéed greens and peppers. I watched as she chopped the vegetables with precision and skill, adding a dash of this and a pinch of that to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
I asked her for the recipe, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. She smiled and handed me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions. I thanked her profusely and promised to make it for my family soon.
When I got home, I immediately set to work, gathering the fresh greens and peppers from my garden. I meticulously followed the recipe, sautéing the vegetables just as my friend had shown me. As the dish came together, the colors and smells filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that moment in my friend's kitchen.
When I served the Greens with Green Pepper to my family that evening, their eyes lit up with delight. They took their first bite and exclaimed how delicious it was. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had successfully recreated a dish that had captivated me from the moment I saw it.
From that day on, Greens with Green Pepper became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a simple weeknight dinner. Each time I made it, I added my own twist, experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings to make it my own.
Over the years, I've shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of Greens with Green Pepper to the next generation. It has become a beloved dish in our household, a reminder of the time spent in my friend's kitchen all those years ago.
As I look back on the memories of learning to make Greens with Green Pepper, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and family who have shared their recipes and cooking skills with me. Each dish holds a special place in my heart, a connection to the people and moments that have shaped me into the cook I am today.
I am forever grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in the kitchen, and I look forward to passing on the tradition of Greens with Green Pepper to future generations. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about creating memories and connections that last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Categories
| Cassava Recipes | Collard Greens Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Kale Recipes | Potato Recipes | Senegalese Recipes | Spinach Recipes | Turnip Greens Recipes |