Ingame Pilé

Ingame Pilé Recipe - Traditional Benin Dish with Malanga

Region / culture: Benin | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ingame Pilé is a traditional dish that originates from the Caribbean, specifically the island of Martinique. This dish is made with malanga, a starchy root vegetable that is similar to taro root. Ingame Pilé is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

Ingame Pilé has been a staple in Martinique cuisine for generations. It is a dish that has been passed down through families and is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings. The pounding of the malanga is a traditional technique that has been used for centuries to create a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredients

malanga

How to prepare

Peel the ingredient and cut it into medium-sized chunks. Boil it for 10-15 minutes until it becomes soft.
Take a small metal bowl and a hand-sized wooden pounder. Gradually pound the ingredient, adding small amounts of water until it reaches a moist consistency.
Continue pounding the mixture until all the lumps are removed.

Variations

Add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Mix in some chopped herbs or spices for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel the malanga before boiling it to ensure a smooth texture.

- Gradually add water while pounding the malanga to achieve the desired consistency.

- Use a hand-sized wooden pounder to easily mash the malanga.

Serving Suggestions

Ingame Pilé can be served as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pounding the malanga is a traditional technique used to create a smooth and creamy texture in Ingame Pilé.

Ingredient Substitutions

If malanga is not available, taro root or yams can be used as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Ingame Pilé can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ingame Pilé in a decorative bowl and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ingame Pilé pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Ingame Pilé typically contains around 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Malanga is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.

Fats

Ingame Pilé is a low-fat dish, making it a healthy option for those watching their fat intake.

Proteins

While malanga does contain some protein, it is not a significant source in this dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Malanga is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

Malanga is not a common allergen, making this dish suitable for most individuals.

Summary

Ingame Pilé is a nutritious dish that is low in fat and calories, while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Ingame Pilé is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy this traditional Caribbean dish with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a rainy day in the bustling market of Ingame, a small village tucked away in the lush mountains of the Philippines. As I walked through the stalls, the intoxicating aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, guiding me towards a humble old woman who was stirring a large pot of simmering broth.

Intrigued by the tantalizing scent wafting towards me, I approached the old woman and struck up a conversation. She introduced herself as Lola Maria, a renowned cook in the village known for her delectable dishes. When I asked her what she was cooking, her eyes lit up with pride as she began to tell me about her signature dish - Ingame Pilé.

Ingame Pilé was a traditional Filipino dish made with tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices simmered in a rich coconut milk broth. Lola Maria explained that the secret to the dish was in the careful balance of flavors - the sweetness of the coconut milk, the heat of the chili peppers, and the savory umami of the fish sauce.

As she stirred the pot, she graciously offered to teach me how to make Ingame Pilé. I eagerly accepted her offer and spent the entire afternoon watching and learning as she patiently guided me through each step of the recipe. From chopping the vegetables to seasoning the broth, Lola Maria's expert hands moved with grace and precision, infusing the dish with love and tradition.

As the sun began to set and the tantalizing aroma of Ingame Pilé filled the air, Lola Maria invited me to join her for a meal. We sat down at a rustic wooden table and served ourselves generous portions of the steaming hot stew. With the first spoonful, my taste buds exploded with a symphony of flavors - the tender chicken melting in my mouth, the crunch of the fresh vegetables, and the creamy richness of the coconut milk.

As we savored each bite, Lola Maria shared with me the history of Ingame Pilé. She explained that the dish had been passed down through generations in her family, each cook adding their own unique twist to the recipe. She had learned how to make it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on, creating a culinary legacy that spanned centuries.

I was captivated by the story and the deep connection that Lola Maria felt to her heritage through this simple yet exquisite dish. I knew in that moment that I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of culinary wisdom, and I resolved to learn as much as I could from this remarkable woman.

Over the following weeks, I returned to Lola Maria's humble kitchen time and time again, eager to absorb every morsel of knowledge she had to offer. She taught me not only how to make Ingame Pilé, but also shared with me other traditional Filipino recipes, each one more delicious than the last.

As I honed my cooking skills under Lola Maria's watchful eye, I began to understand the true essence of Filipino cuisine - the importance of fresh ingredients, the delicate balance of flavors, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards Lola Maria for opening my eyes to this rich culinary heritage and for instilling in me a love for cooking that would stay with me for a lifetime.

Years passed, and I eventually left the village of Ingame to pursue my own culinary adventures. But the memories of my time with Lola Maria and the lessons she imparted to me stayed with me wherever I went. I continued to cook Ingame Pilé for my family and friends, each time evoking the spirit of that rainy day in the bustling market of Ingame.

Today, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar aromas of coconut milk and chili peppers, I am reminded of the journey that led me to this moment. I am grateful for Lola Maria, for her wisdom and generosity, and for the gift of Ingame Pilé that she bestowed upon me.

And so, as I serve up a steaming bowl of the fragrant stew to my loved ones, I offer a silent thank you to the old woman who taught me not just how to cook, but how to embrace the beauty and tradition of Filipino cuisine. Ingame Pilé may be just a recipe to some, but to me, it is a legacy of love and a connection to my roots that will always hold a special place in my heart.