Obe Ata

Obe Ata Recipe - A Delicious Nigerian Dish

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Obe Ata is a traditional Nigerian stew that is bursting with flavor and spice. This hearty dish is made with a blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and a variety of seasonings. It is typically served with rice or a side of fufu for a satisfying meal.

History

Obe Ata has been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for generations. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with different meats and vegetables to suit individual tastes. The rich flavors and vibrant colors of Obe Ata make it a popular choice for special occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients

3 to 4 fresh tomatoes and 1 to 2 bell peppers or 16 oz (454 g) of tomato sauce + 6 oz of tomato paste (bell pepper is optional)
meat, chicken, or fish
4 maggi cubes
palm oil if available, otherwise use vegetable oil
2 onions
salt
dry pepper
water

How to prepare

Place the meat in a pot and add a small amount of water (as the meat cooks, it will release its own juices). Dice one onion and add it to the pot along with some salt. Cook the meat until it is almost tender.
If using fresh ingredients, grind the tomatoes and bell peppers together. You can also add another onion to the mixture if desired.
Pour the blended tomato mixture (or tomato sauce and tomato paste) into the pot with the meat. Also add palm oil or vegetable oil.
Allow the mixture to cook for approximately 20-30 minutes, stirring constantly.
Season with salt and dry pepper according to taste.

Variations

Add shrimp or chicken instead of fish for a different flavor.
Include vegetables such as carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and bell peppers for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of dry pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Stir the stew frequently to prevent burning.

- Allow the stew to simmer for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Obe Ata with white rice, boiled yam, or fufu for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the stew on low heat to allow the flavors to develop.

- Use a blender to puree the tomatoes and bell peppers for a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Obe Ata can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Obe Ata with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve in a decorative bowl for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Obe Ata with a side of jollof rice or plantains for a delicious meal. Serve with a cold glass of hibiscus tea for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Obe Ata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 200

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Fats: 8g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins and Minerals: Obe Ata is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

Allergens: None

Summary

Obe Ata is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of protein and healthy fats.

Summary

Obe Ata is a flavorful and nutritious Nigerian stew that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With a blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, and seasonings, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Obe Ata. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria. My mother had invited her best friend over for dinner, and she brought along a pot of this delicious stew to share with us. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

My mother's friend, Aunty Bisi, was kind enough to teach me her secret recipe. She explained that Obe Ata is a traditional Nigerian stew made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The key to a delicious Obe Ata, she told me, was in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful sauce.

I watched intently as Aunty Bisi chopped the onions, tomatoes, and peppers, carefully measuring out the spices and seasoning the stew to perfection. She let me taste along the way, adjusting the seasoning until it was just right. As the stew simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, I knew I had found a new favorite dish.

Over the years, I have made Obe Ata countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have added extra chili peppers for a spicy kick, or more bell peppers for a sweeter flavor. I have experimented with different cuts of meat, from tender chunks of beef to succulent pieces of chicken, each adding its own unique touch to the dish.

One of my favorite memories of making Obe Ata was when my own daughter, Ada, asked me to teach her how to make it. She had always loved the stew, and I was thrilled to pass down the recipe to the next generation. As we stood side by side in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and stirring the pot, I felt a deep sense of connection to my own mother and Aunty Bisi, who had taught me the recipe so many years ago.

As Ada grew older, she began to put her own spin on the Obe Ata recipe. She added a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture, or a handful of fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. I loved seeing her creativity in the kitchen, knowing that she had inherited my passion for cooking and experimenting with new flavors.

Now, whenever I make Obe Ata, I think of all the memories and stories that are woven into this simple dish. I remember the laughter and chatter of my mother and Aunty Bisi as they cooked together, and the joy on Ada's face as she mastered the recipe on her own. Obe Ata has become more than just a stew to me - it is a link to my past, a reminder of the love and friendship that have shaped me into the cook that I am today.

And so, as I continue to cook and share this beloved recipe with my family and friends, I am grateful for the traditions and memories that have been passed down through generations. Obe Ata will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bonds that connect us all through the simple act of sharing a meal.