Teresa's Recipes
Akidi - Traditional Nigerian Black-Eyed Peas Stew
Akidi is a hearty and flavorful traditional dish from Nigeria, made with black-eyed peas that are simmered to perfection in a rich blend of spices, smoked fish, and vibrant peppers. This dish showcases the bold flavors of West African cuisine and is often enjoyed as a main course or served alongside fufu or steamed rice. With its spicy kick from Scotch bonnet pepper and the umami depth from smoked fish, Akidi is not just a meal; it's a celebration of culture and tradition.
Ingredients
- 2 cups, soaked overnight Black-eyed peas
- 4 cups (or as needed) Water
- 2 Seasoning cubes
- to taste Salt
- 1 cup, shredded Smoked fish
- 1 cup, soaked and shredded Stockfish
- 2 tablespoons, ground Crayfish
- 1 tablespoon, grated Ginger
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1, chopped (adjust to taste) Scotch bonnet pepper
- 1, chopped Red bell pepper
- 1 large, chopped Onion
- 1/2 cup Palm oil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Rinse the soaked black-eyed peas under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground crayfish. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
- Incorporate the soaked stockfish and smoked fish, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
- Add the rinsed black-eyed peas and season with salt and seasoning cubes. Mix well to ensure the peas are coated with the spices.
- Pour in the water, making sure the mixture is covered. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the black-eyed peas are tender and the stew has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot as a main dish or with a side of steamed rice or fufu.
Tips
- For a milder dish, reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper or remove the seeds.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Serve with a side of plantains for a delightful contrast in flavors.