Banga Stew, also known as Ofe Akwu, is a traditional dish from the Niger Delta and South Eastern parts of Nigeria. It is a flavorful stew made with palm fruit extract and is typically served with white rice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1LBanga paste or palm fruits
- 1lbcow meat
- 1lbKpomo
- 2tbspcrayfish
- 2cubes Maggi
- 1tspsalt
- 5sprigsscent leaves
- 1tbspBanga spices
- 1pieceOkpei
- 1pieceonion
- 2piecefresh tomatoes (optional)
- 2pieceScotch bonnet pepper
How to make Banga Stew (Ofe Akwu)
Preparation
Wash the meat and Kpomo thoroughly. Place them in a pot and steam with Maggi cubes, salt, onions, and a little pepper. Add water to create the stock.
Banga Paste Preparation (if using palm fruits)
Wash the palm fruits and place them in a pot. Add enough water and boil until soft.
Remove from the pot and place in a mortar. Pound to separate the flesh from the nut, then set the nuts aside.
Use warm water to wash and squeeze the flesh, extracting the water until it becomes concentrated. Sieve the mixture. This can be done repeatedly or at once, depending on the size of the palm fruit.
Cooking the Stew
In a dry pot, pour in the Banga paste and allow it to boil.
Add the meat stock, sliced tomatoes, pepper, and onions. Stir in the crayfish, Maggi cubes, Banga spice, and dissolved Okpei.
Add the meat and Kpomo, and salt to taste. Allow the mixture to boil until it starts to thicken.
Add the chopped scent leaves and simmer for 2 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Serve the Banga Stew with boiled white rice. You can also add fried plantain or beans on the side for a complete meal.
Reviews
ugoilem
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