How to Make Nigerian Tomato Stew: An NKENNE Cooking Guide
Hello, NKENNE community! Are you ready to dive into the vibrant world of Nigerian cuisine? Today, I'm thrilled to share a simple yet mouth-watering recipe for Nigerian Tomato Stew, also known as Nigerian Red Stew. This dish is not only a staple in many Nigerian homes but also a delicious way to bring a taste of Nigeria to your table. Let's get cooking!
Nigerian Tomato Stew (Nigerian Red Stew) Recipe
This delightful stew features farm-raised ram meat, which adds a uniquely delicious, gamey flavor that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe serves up to 10 people and promises to be a hit!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Nigerian
Servings: 10 people
Calories: 353.4 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
2 lbs braised ram meat chunks
3.5 lbs plum tomatoes (about 1570 grams)
2 large onions
2 large bell peppers
4 Scotch bonnet peppers
3 cloves garlic
Small thumb of ginger
½ cup flavorless oil (I used grape seed oil)
1 ¾ cups lamb stock (from braising the ram)
1 tsp curry powder
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp bouillon
Salt (to taste)
Instructions:
Blend the Base: Start by blending the tomatoes, 1 large onion, bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and ginger together until smooth. Set this vibrant mixture aside.
Brown the Meat: Take your braised lamb chunks and broil them in the oven until they are beautifully browned on both sides, then set aside.
Cook the Tomato Mixture: Pour the blended tomato mixture into a large pot and cook on medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it thickens and reduces to about half its original volume, forming a rich paste.
Prepare the Onions: While the tomatoes are cooking, slice the remaining large onion and set it aside.
Combine and Simmer: Once your tomato base has thickened, remove it from the pot. In the same pot, heat the oil and caramelize the sliced onions until they’re soft and golden. Add the tomato paste back to the pot with the onions and let them cook together on low-medium heat for about 5 minutes.
Season: Pour in the lamb stock and season the mixture with bouillon, dried thyme, and curry powder. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat.
Add the Meat: Now, add the browned ram meat to the pot, stir well, and let the stew cook covered for another 5 minutes. Taste for salt and adjust according to your preference, then let it cook for a final 5 minutes covered.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Nigerian Tomato Stew is ready to delight! Serve this hearty, flavorful stew over rice, yam, or with your favorite side.
Cooking Tips:
The spiciness can be adjusted by using fewer Scotch bonnet peppers if you prefer a milder stew.
Always taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right for your palate.
There you have it, a simple guide to making traditional Nigerian Tomato Stew, straight from NKENNE's kitchen to yours. Enjoy the process, share your creation with friends or family, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us.