Nigerian Stew

Nigerian Stew Recipe - Meat, Tomato Sauce, Onion, Black Pepper, Oil, Rice

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 47 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nigerian Stew is a flavorful and hearty dish that is a staple in Nigerian cuisine. This stew is typically made with a base of tomato sauce and a variety of meats and vegetables. It is often served over rice or with a side of bread.

History

Nigerian Stew has been a traditional dish in Nigeria for generations. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, depending on personal preferences and regional variations. The stew is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of cooked meat (chicken, beef, or turkey)
1 can (15 oz or 425 g) of Hunt's tomato sauce with herbs
1 whole onion, chopped
1 tbsp of black pepper and salt
3 tbsp of oil
2 cups of cooked rice

How to prepare

Heat the oil for approximately 2 minutes.
Pour 1 tsp of salt into the oil.
Add the tomato sauce to the salt and oil, and cook for about 10 minutes.
Add the meat.
Cook for about 7 minutes.
Simmer for approximately 30 minutes and serve over cooked rice.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas to the stew for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different meats such as chicken, fish, or lamb in place of turkey for a different taste.
Add spices such as curry powder, thyme, and bay leaves for a more aromatic stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the tomato sauce for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

- Use a combination of meats, such as turkey and beef, for a more flavorful stew.

- Adjust the amount of salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Simmer the stew for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian Stew is best served over a bed of cooked rice or with a side of bread. It can also be enjoyed with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Nigerian Stew include sautéing the onions and meats, simmering the stew to allow the flavors to develop, and adjusting the seasonings to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef in place of turkey for a different flavor.

- Use vegetable oil or coconut oil in place of the oil called for in the recipe.

- Use canned tomatoes in place of tomato sauce for a chunkier stew.

Make Ahead Tips

Nigerian Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nigerian Stew in a large serving bowl over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Nigerian Stew pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of bread. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Nigerian Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Nigerian Stew typically contains around 350 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Nigerian Stew come primarily from the rice used as a base for the dish. Each serving of Nigerian Stew typically contains around 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in Nigerian Stew come from the oil used to cook the stew and any fats present in the meats used. Each serving of Nigerian Stew typically contains around 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

The proteins in Nigerian Stew come from the meats used in the dish, such as turkey and beef. Each serving of Nigerian Stew typically contains around 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Nigerian Stew is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Nigerian Stew may contain allergens such as wheat (if served with bread) and soy (if soy sauce is used). It is important to check for allergens before consuming the dish.

Summary

Overall, Nigerian Stew is a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Nigerian Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a rich tomato sauce base and tender meats, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Nigerian Stew. It was a hot and humid day in Lagos, Nigeria, where I was visiting my dear friend Ogechi. Ogechi was an incredible cook, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her specialty dishes.

As we stood in her bustling kitchen, surrounded by the fragrant smells of spices and herbs, Ogechi handed me a spoon and told me to taste the stew she had been simmering for hours. The rich flavors of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various spices danced on my taste buds, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Ogechi smiled as she saw the delight on my face. "I learned how to make this stew from my mother, who learned it from her mother before her," she explained. "It's a traditional Nigerian recipe that has been passed down through generations."

I was fascinated by the history and tradition behind this dish, and I begged Ogechi to teach me how to make it. She agreed, and over the course of the next few days, I shadowed her in the kitchen, taking notes and asking questions as she cooked.

I learned that the key to a good Nigerian Stew lies in the careful balance of flavors and spices. Ogechi taught me to start by sautéing onions and peppers in palm oil until they were soft and fragrant. Then, I added in a blend of tomatoes, tomato paste, and a secret mix of spices that Ogechi refused to reveal.

As the stew simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its intoxicating aroma, Ogechi shared stories of her childhood in Nigeria and the meals her mother used to make. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and committing it to memory.

Finally, after hours of simmering, Ogechi declared the stew ready. She ladled it into bowls and served it with a side of fluffy white rice. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that hot day in Lagos, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of Nigeria.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to recreate Ogechi's Nigerian Stew in my own kitchen. I followed her recipe to the letter, carefully measuring out each ingredient and stirring the pot with the same love and care that Ogechi had shown me.

As the stew bubbled away on the stove, filling my home with its savory aroma, I felt a sense of pride and connection to the past. I could almost hear the laughter of Ogechi's family in the background, cheering me on as I continued the tradition of making this delicious dish.

When the stew was finally ready, I served it to my own family with a side of rice and a fresh salad. Their faces lit up with delight as they tasted the flavors of Nigeria for the first time, and I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in our home.

And so, that is how I learned to make Nigerian Stew – a recipe that has not only filled my kitchen with warmth and flavor but has also connected me to a rich and vibrant culinary tradition that spans generations. I am forever grateful to Ogechi for sharing her knowledge and her love of cooking with me, and I will continue to pass on this recipe to future generations, just as it was passed down to me.