Moi-Moi with Beef

Moi-Moi with Beef Recipe from Nigeria | Black-Eyed Peas, Corned Beef, Onion, Tomatoes

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 45 minutes to 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Moi-Moi with Beef is a delicious and nutritious Nigerian dish made from black-eyed peas, corned beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This dish is a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is often served at special occasions and gatherings.

History

Moi-Moi is a traditional Nigerian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated from the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria and has since become a staple in Nigerian cuisine. The addition of beef to the recipe adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among many.

Ingredients

2 cups black-eyed peas
0.5 can of corned beef
1 onion
2 fresh tomatoes
salt to taste
pepper to taste
3x4" aluminum foil bag
2 tbsp vegetable oil

How to prepare

Soak peas in 3 cups of water for 1 hour.
Wash off the black eye and membrane covering.
Blend finely in a blender with onions and tomatoes.
Add salt, if desired.
Mix with vegetable oil in a bowl.
The mixture should have a fairly consistent texture.
Add the corned beef in bits.
The mixture should be put in an aluminum foil bag and sealed.
Place the bag in a large pot with 2 cups of boiling water.
Allow it to cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Add water to the pot, if needed.
The moi-moi will solidify when it cools.

Variations

Substitute the corned beef with shredded chicken or fish for a different flavor.
Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and color.
Use different spices such as curry powder, thyme, or paprika for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the black-eyed peas before blending helps to soften them and make them easier to blend.

- Adding salt and pepper to taste enhances the flavor of the moi-moi.

- Cooking the moi-moi in an aluminum foil bag helps to retain the moisture and flavors of the dish.

- Checking the water level in the pot while cooking ensures that the moi-moi does not dry out.

Serving Suggestions

Moi-Moi with Beef can be served as a main dish with a side of rice, plantains, or bread. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Blend the black-eyed peas, onions, and tomatoes until smooth for a consistent texture.

- Seal the aluminum foil bag tightly to prevent any moisture from escaping while cooking.

- Check the water level in the pot periodically to ensure that the moi-moi does not dry out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use kidney beans or chickpeas instead of black-eyed peas for a different variation.

- Substitute the corned beef with ground beef, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

- Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Moi-Moi with Beef can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the moi-moi on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, sliced tomatoes, and onions for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also mold the moi-moi into individual portions using a ramekin or mold for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

Moi-Moi with Beef pairs well with a side of jollof rice, fried plantains, or Nigerian fried rice. It can also be enjoyed with a side of coleslaw, salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover moi-moi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Moi-Moi with Beef contains approximately 250 calories. This dish is a nutritious and filling option for any meal and provides a good source of energy.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Moi-Moi with Beef contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of Moi-Moi with Beef contains approximately 10 grams of fats. Fats are essential for the absorption of vitamins and minerals in the body and provide a concentrated source of energy.

Proteins

Each serving of Moi-Moi with Beef contains approximately 15 grams of proteins. Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and are important for overall growth and development.

Vitamins and minerals

Moi-Moi with Beef is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting good vision, and supporting overall health.

Alergens

Moi-Moi with Beef contains black-eyed peas and corned beef, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Moi-Moi with Beef is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a filling and satisfying option for any meal and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Moi-Moi with Beef is a flavorful and nutritious Nigerian dish made from black-eyed peas, corned beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This dish is a popular choice for any meal and can be enjoyed by the whole family. With its rich source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, Moi-Moi with Beef is a satisfying and filling option that is sure to please your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Moi-Moi with Beef. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her bustling kitchen. Maria was a seasoned cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. As we chatted over cups of tea, she suddenly pulled out a worn, tattered notebook from a drawer and handed it to me.

"Here, my dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "I think you'll appreciate this recipe for Moi-Moi with Beef. It's a traditional Nigerian dish, and I learned it from a dear friend of mine many years ago."

I eagerly flipped through the pages of the notebook, taking in the handwritten notes and faded photographs. The recipe for Moi-Moi with Beef caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it.

Maria guided me through the steps, sharing her tips and tricks as we worked side by side in the kitchen. We soaked the beans, peeled the plantains, and chopped the onions and peppers with precision. The beef was seasoned with a blend of spices that filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

As we assembled the ingredients in a large bowl, Maria shared the story of her friend who had taught her the recipe. She spoke of long afternoons spent in the kitchen, laughing and sharing stories as they cooked together. The love and care that went into each dish was evident in the final product.

After hours of preparation and anticipation, the Moi-Moi with Beef was finally ready. The steaming, fragrant dish was served with a side of jollof rice and a fresh salad. The flavors melded together in a symphony of taste that left me speechless.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. The combination of tender beef, creamy beans, and spicy peppers was a revelation. I could taste the history and tradition that had been passed down through generations.

Over the years, I have made Moi-Moi with Beef for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepare the dish, I am reminded of that fateful day in Maria's kitchen and the gift of that treasured recipe.

I have since added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different types of meat, spices, and fillings. But the essence of the dish remains the same – a celebration of flavor, tradition, and love.

My grandchildren have grown to love Moi-Moi with Beef, requesting it for their birthdays and holidays. They marvel at the story behind the recipe, eager to learn more about the culture and heritage it represents.

As I pass down the recipe to the next generation, I am filled with gratitude for Maria and her friend who shared this culinary gem with me. I am honored to carry on the tradition and create new memories with each batch of Moi-Moi with Beef that I make.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I am reminded of the power of a simple recipe to bring people together, to create connections that span time and distance. I am grateful for the gift of this dish, and for the love and friendship that it represents.