Ground Nut Chop
Ground Nut Chop Recipe from Central African Republic with Chicken, Tomatoes, Onions, and Rice
Introduction
Ground Nut Chop is a traditional Nigerian dish that is rich in flavor and nutrients. This hearty stew is made with a combination of chicken, tomatoes, onions, ground peanuts, okoro (garden egg), hard-boiled eggs, and rice. It is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many in Nigeria and beyond.
History
Ground Nut Chop has been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for generations. The combination of chicken, ground peanuts, and vegetables creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is often served at special events and gatherings, as it is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Fry the chicken pieces with tomatoes and onions.
- Then transfer them to a saucepan with stock and simmer.
- Grind the ground nuts into a fine texture, mix with a little water to form a paste, and add it to the chicken.
- Heat the mixture and allow it to thicken.
- Add 2 or 3 okoro and two or three hard-boiled eggs (1 per serving).
- Serve the stew in soup plates over a bed of rice, according to individual preferences.
Variations
- Substitute chicken with beef or fish for a different flavor profile.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
- Use different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the stew.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown for added flavor.
- Grinding the ground nuts into a fine texture will help thicken the stew and enhance the nutty flavor.
- Adding okoro and hard-boiled eggs to the stew adds a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
- Serve the stew over a bed of rice for a complete and filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ground Nut Chop with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. It can also be enjoyed with a side of plantains or yams for a traditional Nigerian meal.
Cooking Techniques
Frying the chicken until golden brown adds flavor and texture to the dish.
- Simmering the stew with stock helps to infuse the flavors and create a rich and savory sauce.
- Grinding the ground nuts into a paste helps to thicken the stew and enhance the nutty flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute for ground peanuts.
- Substitute okoro with zucchini or eggplant for a similar texture.
- Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different twist on the dish.
Make Ahead Tips
Ground Nut Chop can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the stew before serving and enjoy a quick and easy meal.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Ground Nut Chop in soup plates over a bed of rice for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Ground Nut Chop with a glass of chilled palm wine or a refreshing fruit juice for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with a side of fried plantains or yams.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Ground Nut Chop in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Ground Nut Chop contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used. It is a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Carbohydrates
Ground Nut Chop is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the inclusion of rice in the recipe. Carbohydrates provide the body with energy and are an essential part of a balanced diet.
Fats
The ground peanuts used in this recipe are a good source of healthy fats, which are important for brain function and overall health. However, it is important to consume fats in moderation.
Proteins
Chicken is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The combination of chicken and eggs in this dish provides a good amount of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and nuts used in the recipe. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, while onions provide essential minerals like potassium and manganese.
Alergens
This recipe contains peanuts, eggs, and chicken, which are common allergens. It is important to be mindful of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing this dish.
Summary
Ground Nut Chop is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a well-rounded meal that provides energy and essential nutrients for the body.
Summary
Ground Nut Chop is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional Nigerian stew is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal that is sure to satisfy. Enjoy this delicious dish with family and friends for a taste of Nigerian cuisine.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Ground Nut Chop. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my friend Molly in her small village in Nigeria. As we sat in her kitchen, surrounded by the delicious smells of cooking spices and herbs, she began to tell me about this traditional dish that her grandmother used to make.
Molly described how her grandmother would carefully roast groundnuts until they were golden brown and fragrant, then grind them into a fine powder. She would then mix the groundnuts with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a rich and flavorful paste. This paste would then be shaped into small balls and fried until crispy and golden brown.
I was immediately intrigued by the recipe, and begged Molly to teach me how to make it. She laughed and agreed, saying that her grandmother would be thrilled to know that her recipe was being passed down to a new generation.
We spent the rest of the afternoon in Molly's kitchen, grinding the roasted groundnuts into a fine powder and mixing them with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The aroma that filled the room was intoxicating, and I knew that this dish would become a favorite in my own kitchen.
As we shaped the mixture into small balls and fried them until they were crispy and golden brown, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. This recipe was not just a dish to me - it was a connection to a rich and vibrant culture, passed down through generations.
After we finished frying the Ground Nut Chops, Molly and I sat down to enjoy our creation. The crispy exterior gave way to a tender and flavorful center, bursting with the nutty taste of groundnuts and the spicy kick of the seasoning. It was a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced before, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.
I made sure to write down the recipe in my notebook, along with notes on the traditional techniques that Molly had taught me. I wanted to make sure that I could recreate this dish for my own family and friends, sharing the delicious flavors and rich history of Ground Nut Chops with everyone I knew.
Over the years, I have continued to make Ground Nut Chops for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of that warm summer afternoon in Molly's kitchen, and the sense of connection and tradition that I felt as I learned this recipe.
I am grateful to Molly for sharing her grandmother's recipe with me, and for opening my eyes to the wonderful world of Nigerian cuisine. The flavors and aromas of Ground Nut Chops will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and celebrate our shared heritage.
So whenever I make Ground Nut Chops, I do so with a sense of joy and gratitude, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has been passed down through generations. And as I serve this delicious dish to my family and friends, I am filled with pride, knowing that I am sharing a taste of Nigeria with those I love.
Categories
| Central African Appetizers | Central African Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Eggplant Recipes | Nut Meal Recipes | Rice Recipes |