Egusi
Egusi is a legendary dish that is much loved in the West African region (especially Nigeria), this adaptation is completely 100% plant based! The sauce is thick, savory, and brightly colored with a distinctive flavor from finely ground pumpkin seeds, combined with fresh green vegetables and rich spices. This dish is very special because it maintains the authenticity of traditional, heart-warming flavors, full of plant-based protein and healthy fats.And it remains delicious and filling even though it is served without animal ingredients, it is very suitable to be enjoyed with rice, boiled sweet potato or flatbread.
Shared by Nora
Time
60 min
Serves
5
Difficulty
medium
🛒 Ingredients
- #the main ingredient:
- 150 grams of finely peeled/ground pumpkin seeds
- One large onion, finely chopped
- Three cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- One piece of ginger, finely grated
- Two ripe tomatoes, diced/200 grams canned tomatoes
- One bunch of spinach leaves/pumpkin leaves/cassava leaves, finely sliced
- 100 grams of red beans/single beans, boiled until soft (optional)
- 600 ml plain vegetable stock
- 3 tablespoons palm oil/vegetable oil
- #seasoning ingredients:
- One teaspoon of chili powder, black pepper powder
- Salt and coconut sugar to taste
- Fresh celery leaves for sprinkling
👩🍳 Instructions
- 1
Mix the ground pumpkin seeds with a little water until it becomes a thick paste, set aside.
- 2
Heat oil in a pan, sauté the onions until softened, then add the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and cook until they break down and combine into a sauce.
- 3
Add the pumpkin seed paste and stir gently for 3 to 4 minutes to release the aroma and prevent lumps. Slowly pour in the vegetable stock while stirring thoroughly.
- 4
Add the boiled peanuts, salt, pepper, and chili. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the spices are fully absorbed.
- 5
Finally, add the greens and stir briefly until wilted. Serve warm with a sprinkling of celery leaves. Your delicious meal is ready to be enjoyed!