Hearty African Beans Porridge

A comforting and savory beans porridge, rich with the flavors of tomatoes, peppers, and aromatic spices, all brought together with a touch of vibrant palm oil. This hearty dish is a staple in many African households, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Total Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
AfricanVegetarianVeganPescatarianDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeFish-FreeSesame-FreeSugar-Free

Ingredients

  • 2 cans Black-eyed peas (15oz each, rinsed and drained)
  • 1 piece Red onion (medium, finely chopped)
  • 1 piece Red bell pepper (seeded and diced)
  • 0.5 piece Scotch bonnet pepper (or to taste, finely minced (remove seeds for less heat))
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp Ginger (freshly grated)
  • 1 can Crushed tomatoes (14.5oz)
  • 2 cups Vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp Palm oil
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp Curry powder
  • 0.5 tsp Dried thyme
  • to taste to taste Salt
  • to taste to taste Black pepper
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish (optional))

Instructions

  1. 1.

    Heat the palm oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion, red bell pepper, and minced scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

    Time: 7 min
  2. 2.

    Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic, being careful not to burn the garlic.

    Time: 2 min
  3. 3.

    Stir in the smoked paprika, curry powder, and dried thyme. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast and become fragrant.

    Time: 1 min
  4. 4.

    Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the rinsed and drained black-eyed peas.

    Time: 5 min
  5. 5.

    Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the porridge simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

    Time: 18 min
  6. 6.

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, if using, and serve hot.

    Time: 2 min

Tips

  • 💡For a richer flavor, you can add a smoked fish or a small amount of beef/chicken stock instead of vegetable broth.
  • 💡If you prefer a thicker porridge, mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher before serving.
  • 💡Beans porridge is excellent with a side of fried plantains, boiled yam, or rice.

Recipe from TheCookbook.ai

Created by Anonymous