How to Make Tasty Nigerian Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion, you can't go wrong with Nigerian stew. Made with a variety of vegetables, spices, and meats, this dish is a staple in Nigerian cuisine.

But if you're not familiar with the traditional recipe, it can be a bit intimidating to know where to start. That's why we've put together this step-by-step guide on how to make tasty Nigerian stew that's sure to impress.

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, you'll need to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

2 pounds of chicken, beef, or goat meat, cut into pieces
2 large onions, chopped
4 large tomatoes, chopped
3 bell peppers, chopped
2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (optional)
1 cup of vegetable oil
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
2 teaspoons of thyme
2 teaspoons of curry powder
2 teaspoons of garlic powder
2 teaspoons of ginger powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Brown the Meat

The first step in making Nigerian stew is to brown the meat. Heat up a large pot over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the meat and brown on all sides, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions and sauté until they're soft and translucent. Then, add the tomatoes, bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers (if using), and tomato paste. Stir to combine and let cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Next, it's time to add the spices. Add the thyme, curry powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Meat Back In

Once the vegetables and spices are cooked, add the meat back into the pot. Stir to combine and let cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked.

Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning

Before you're ready to serve, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the stew is ready, serve it over rice or with your favorite side dish. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Nigerian cuisine!

Tips for Making Nigerian Stew

If you're using scotch bonnet peppers, be sure to handle them with gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after chopping them. They are very spicy and can be irritating to the skin.
You can use any type of meat you prefer in your Nigerian stew. Chicken, beef, and goat are all popular options.
Nigerian stew is traditionally served over rice, but you can also enjoy it with other starches like yams or plantains.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your stew, try adding some chopped okra or spinach.

Conclusion

Making tasty Nigerian stew may seem daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for your family or preparing a meal for a special event, Nigerian stew is sure to please.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
- Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if you don't have fresh ones available. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the pot.
What if I don't like spicy food?
- If you don't like spicy food, you can omit the scotch bonnet peppers from the recipe. The stew will still be delicious without them.
Can I make Nigerian stew in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make Nigerian stew in a slow cooker. Simply follow the steps for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How long will Nigerian stew last in the fridge?
- Nigerian stew will last for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Nigerian stew?
- Yes, you can freeze Nigerian stew. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat up on the stove or in the microwave.