Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage
Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage Recipe from Liberia
Introduction
Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage is a traditional dish that combines the flavors of collard greens, cabbage, and pork. This hearty and nutritious dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.
History
This recipe has been passed down through generations in the Monvrovian region, where collard greens and cabbage are staple ingredients in many dishes. The addition of pork adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among locals.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of collard greens, washed and cut into small pieces
- 0.5 lb of chicken, beef, or pork, cut into 1- to 2-inch pieces*
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp of salt
- 1 tbsp of crushed red pepper
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 qt (946 ml) of water.
How to prepare
- Simmer gently for 30 minutes.
- Add: 2 lb of cabbage, cut into 8 wedges, and 1 oz (28 g) of butter or oil.
- Cook for 15 minutes or longer until the vegetables are tender.
- Correct the seasoning to your taste.
- Strain before serving if water has not been absorbed.
- Serve in a 2 qt (1.89 liter) bowl.
Variations
- Add smoked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute kale for collard greens for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to wash the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cutting the collard greens and cabbage into small pieces ensures that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the pork and seasonings.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage with a side of cornbread or rice for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Simmering the collard greens and cabbage with the pork allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and savory dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If pork is not available, you can use smoked turkey or chicken as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers 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
Each serving of Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Collard greens and cabbage are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains pork, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.
Summary
Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a comforting dinner.
Summary
Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage. It was given to me by an elderly woman I met at the local farmer's market. She had a twinkle in her eye as she shared the recipe with me, telling me it was a traditional dish from her homeland of Monvrovia.
I had never heard of Monvrovia before, but the woman's enthusiasm for her country and its cuisine was infectious. She told me stories of rolling hills covered in lush greenery, of bustling markets filled with exotic spices and fresh produce, and of family gatherings where this dish was always the star of the table.
As she spoke, I could almost smell the fragrant herbs and spices wafting through the air, and my mouth watered at the thought of the hearty combination of collards and cabbage simmering on the stove. I knew I had to try my hand at making this dish myself.
The woman handed me a faded piece of paper, the recipe scrawled in elegant script. She told me to follow it exactly, as it had been passed down through generations of her family. I promised her I would, and with a grateful smile, she disappeared into the bustling crowd of the market.
Once I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients for the Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage. I could hardly contain my excitement as I chopped the vegetables, measured out the spices, and followed the instructions on the recipe card.
The aroma that filled my kitchen as the dish cooked was intoxicating. The scent of garlic, onions, and cumin mingled with the earthy smell of the collards and cabbage, creating a symphony of flavors that made my mouth water in anticipation.
When the dish was finally ready, I eagerly served myself a generous helping. The first bite was like a revelation. The collards and cabbage were perfectly tender, the spices perfectly balanced. It was a dish that warmed me from the inside out, filling me with a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think of the woman who had shared this recipe with me. I imagined her standing in her own kitchen, preparing this dish for her loved ones with the same care and attention to detail that I had put into mine.
From that day on, Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I felt a connection to the woman who had passed the recipe on to me, and to the far-off land of Monvrovia that had inspired it.
As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. But no matter how many times I tweaked it, the essence of the dish always remained the same – a comforting, flavorful tribute to a distant land and a kind-hearted stranger.
And so, whenever I cook Monvrovian Collards and Cabbage, I do it with gratitude in my heart for the woman who shared her heritage with me, and with a sense of pride in carrying on the tradition of a dish that has brought so much joy to my kitchen and my table.
Categories
| Bacon Recipes | Cabbage Recipes | Collard Greens Recipes | Collard Greens Side Dish Recipes | Liberian Meat Dishes | Liberian Recipes | Spinach Recipes |