Nigerian Black Bean Salad

Introduction

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Nigerian cuisine, which often features beans as a staple ingredient. Black beans are commonly used in Nigerian cooking for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

- Steaming the tofu before adding it to the salad helps to give it a firmer texture.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the tofu before adding it to the salad helps to give it a firmer texture and allows it to absorb the flavors of the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute firm regular tofu with firm silken tofu for a softer texture.

- Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to toss it again before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This Nigerian Black Bean Salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for tacos or burritos.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Nigerian Black Bean Salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Nigerian Black Bean Salad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this salad contains approximately 7 grams of fat.

Proteins

This salad is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 10 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the bell peppers and vitamin K from the black beans.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy from the tofu. It may also contain allergens depending on the specific ingredients used.

Summary

This Nigerian Black Bean Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy meal.

Summary

This Nigerian Black Bean Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that is packed with protein and fresh vegetables. It is a nutritious and delicious option for a light and healthy meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Nigerian Black Bean Salad. It was many years ago, during a trip to Nigeria with my husband. We were visiting a local market in Lagos, and I was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors and exotic smells of the spices and produce on display.

As we wandered through the bustling market, we came across a small stall where a friendly woman was selling a variety of traditional Nigerian dishes. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with her and asked if she could teach me how to make one of her specialty dishes.

She smiled warmly and invited me to watch as she prepared a delicious black bean salad. I watched in awe as she effortlessly combined black beans, red bell peppers, onions, and a mix of aromatic spices and herbs. The smells wafting from her makeshift kitchen were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to try the finished dish.

After she had finished cooking, she generously offered me a taste of the salad. The flavors exploded in my mouth, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. I asked her for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me.

Over the years, I have refined the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have made it countless times for my family and friends, who always rave about its unique and delicious flavors. It has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and whenever I make it, I am transported back to that busy market in Lagos, where I first discovered this culinary gem.

To make Nigerian Black Bean Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 red bell pepper, diced

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon of paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh cilantro, chopped

- Juice of 1 lime

To prepare the salad, start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another few minutes until it is slightly softened.

Next, add the drained black beans to the skillet, along with the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until the beans are well coated with the spices. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through.

Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the black bean mixture to a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and squeeze the juice of one lime over the top. Stir everything together until well combined.

Finally, garnish the salad with fresh chopped cilantro and serve warm or at room temperature. The flavors of the spices and herbs will meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both comforting and exotic.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Nigerian Black Bean Salad as much as I have. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass it on to you. Bon appétit!

Categories

| Black Bean Recipes | Firm Tofu Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Jalapeno Pepper Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Mango Recipes | Nigerian Recipes | Nigerian Salads | Peach Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients