There are many kinds of beans around the world that differ in shapes, sizes, colors, and tastes. Beans in general belong to the family of crops referred to as legumes but the types of beans common in Nigeria are kidney-shaped, black-eyed, and brown beans. Not all Nigerian beans are brown but the most eaten are brown beans.
In Nigeria, there are majorly two types of beans which are the regular brown beans and the honey beans (called ewa-oloyin in the Yoruba language). honey beans have a natural sweetness compared to other beans. They both look alike when it’s not cooked, but they taste different after cooking.
Beans are a good source of plant protein, iron, fiber, and vitamin B. It is especially important for vegetarians and weight watchers. Nigerian Beans porridge is a one-pot dish that is cheap, healthy, very easy to cook, and tastes delightful.
This very delicious meal can be cooked in some ways but here is one unique way of cooking beans porridge;
Starting with the list of ingridents which are;
4 cups Honey beans/ Nigerian brown beans/ Black eyed peas
¼ cup palm oil
4 Roma tomatoes
4 scotch bonnet peppers
1 Large red onion
1 Large bell pepper
5 tbsp Ground dred cray fish (optional)
3 tsp Shrimp bullion can be substituted with vegetable bullion if vegan
Salt to taste
Then the unique method of making Beans porridge
- The beans should be rinsed properly and placed in a deep pot with 7 cups of water.
- Boil the beans on medium heat until it becomes soft, it could take about 40 mins. If you are using black-eyed peas, it might take a little longer.
- While the beans are boiling, blend the tomatoes, peppers, and onions and set aside
- Once the beans are softened from boiling (do not drain the water), turn the heat down to low, the pour in the blended tomatoes into pot.
- Allow the beans to cook for an additional 10 minutes with the tomatoes, then add in the crayfish, bullion and palm oil. Stir, and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Season the beans with salt to your taste. Turn off the heat, and allow to sit for 5 minutes before serving
Beans poridege can be served with fired plantain,and can be made as a vegetarian meal.
