Moyin-Moyin I Recipe: A Delicious Bean and Prawn Dish from Niger

Moyin-Moyin I

Moyin-Moyin I Recipe: A Delicious Bean and Prawn Dish from Niger
Region / culture: Niger | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Moyin-Moyin I
Moyin-Moyin I

Moyin-Moyin is a traditional Nigerian dish made from ground beans and various spices. It is a popular dish enjoyed by many in Nigeria and across West Africa. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious Moyin-Moyin at home.

History

Moyin-Moyin has been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria and has since become a popular dish enjoyed by people of all ethnicities in the country. The dish is often served at special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and festivals.

Ingredients

  • 500 g / 1 lb beans
  • 3 fresh chillies (liquidised)
  • 1 large onion (liquidised)
  • 200 ml / 7 fl oz oil
  • 225 g / 8 oz fresh prawns
  • 2 soft boiled eggs
  • warm water to mix
  • leaves for wrapping
  • salt to taste

How to prepare

  1. Soak the beans for 5 minutes, then wash them thoroughly to remove the skin.
  2. Grind or blend the beans until smooth.
  3. If you don't have a steamer, you can create a false base using leaves or tin foil. Bring it to a boil.
  4. Mix the ground beans with the other ingredients. Gradually add warm water until the mixture coats the back of a wooden spoon.
  5. Place the mixture on clean leaves and wrap them into parcels. Carefully arrange the parcels in a pot of boiling water. Cover with a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping. Steam for 1 hour or until the moyin-moyin is cooked.
  6. If the water in the pot becomes dry during the cooking process, refill it with boiling water.
  7. After exposure to the air for a few minutes, the parcels of beans should feel firm to the touch.
  8. Unwrap the leaves and serve the moyin-moyin with cold eko.
  9. Alternatively, you can steam the mixture in dariole moulds or foil containers.

Variations

  • Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas to the Moyin-Moyin mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Substitute the prawns with cooked chicken or beef for a different protein option.
  • Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the dish to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans for a few minutes before washing helps to remove the skin easily.

- Gradually adding warm water to the ground beans mixture ensures a smooth consistency.

- Steaming the Moyin-Moyin in parcels wrapped in leaves or foil helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the dish.

- Checking the water level in the pot during the cooking process and refilling it with boiling water as needed prevents the Moyin-Moyin from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Moyin-Moyin can be served as a main dish with a side of eko (fermented cornmeal) or enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the Moyin-Moyin in parcels wrapped in leaves or foil is the traditional cooking technique for this dish. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh prawns are not available, you can use cooked shrimp or omit the seafood altogether. You can also substitute the oil with melted butter or vegetable oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Moyin-Moyin mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before steaming. This makes it a convenient dish to prepare for parties and gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Moyin-Moyin on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and sliced tomatoes for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Moyin-Moyin pairs well with a side of fried plantains, jollof rice, or Nigerian stew for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Moyin-Moyin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam the parcels in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Moyin-Moyin contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Moyin-Moyin is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. Each serving contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

The oil used in this recipe adds healthy fats to the dish. Each serving of Moyin-Moyin contains approximately 15g of fats.

Proteins

The fresh prawns and eggs in this recipe are excellent sources of protein. Each serving of Moyin-Moyin contains approximately 10g of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Moyin-Moyin is a nutritious dish that provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and prawns, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any food allergies before consuming.

Summary

Moyin-Moyin is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious and delicious meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Moyin-Moyin is a delicious and nutritious Nigerian dish made from ground beans, spices, and protein-rich ingredients. This recipe provides a simple and easy-to-follow guide on how to make Moyin-Moyin at home. Enjoy this flavorful dish as a main meal or snack with your favorite side dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, it left a lasting impression on me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend, Amina, in her cozy kitchen. Amina was a talented cook, and she always had a way of making even the simplest dishes taste extraordinary.

As we chatted over cups of hot tea, Amina suddenly jumped up and announced that she was going to make Moyin-Moyin for lunch. I had never heard of Moyin-Moyin before, but I was intrigued by the name and curious to see how it was made.

Amina began by soaking black-eyed peas in water and then grinding them into a smooth paste. She added finely chopped onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, along with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of red pepper flakes. The mixture was then spooned into small cups and steamed until firm.

The aroma that wafted from the steaming Moyin-Moyin was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to try it. When Amina served it to me on a plate, she drizzled a spicy tomato sauce over the top and garnished it with fresh cilantro.

I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The Moyin-Moyin was tender and moist, with a hint of sweetness from the black-eyed peas and a kick of heat from the red pepper flakes. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Amina noticed my enthusiasm and offered to teach me her recipe for Moyin-Moyin. I eagerly accepted her offer and spent the rest of the afternoon by her side, carefully watching as she prepared the dish from start to finish. I took notes on each step, making sure to capture every detail of the process.

After a few hours of cooking and steaming, Amina presented me with a plate of freshly made Moyin-Moyin. I took a bite, and it tasted just as delicious as the first time. Amina smiled at my reaction and told me that she was proud of how quickly I had picked up the recipe.

From that day on, Moyin-Moyin became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. The recipe was a hit with everyone who tried it, and I soon became known for my delicious Moyin-Moyin.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and additions to Amina's original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it even more special. I have experimented with different types of beans, spices, and seasonings, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors in each batch.

I have shared my recipe for Moyin-Moyin with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have asked me for it. I take pride in knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has been passed down through generations, and that I am spreading the joy of good food to others.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover Moyin-Moyin, I am filled with gratitude for Amina and her generosity in sharing her recipe with me. I am grateful for the memories that I have created around this dish, and for the joy that it has brought to so many people.

Moyin-Moyin will always hold a special place in my heart, not just because of its delicious taste, but because of the love and friendship that it represents. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

And so, as I continue to cook and share my recipe for Moyin-Moyin with others, I know that I am honoring a tradition that is as old as time itself. I am preserving a piece of culinary history, and passing it on to future generations to enjoy and cherish.

For me, Moyin-Moyin is more than just a dish. It is a symbol of love, friendship, and the joy of cooking. And I will always be grateful for the day that I first saw this recipe, and the impact that it has had on my life ever since.

Categories

| Bean Recipes | Egg Recipes | Fresh Chile Pepper Recipes | Nigerien Meat Dishes | Nigerien Recipes | Prawn Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients