Moi Moi - Nigerian Steamed Bean Pudding

Ingredients

Black-eyed peas

2 cups, soaked overnight

Water

2 cups, or as needed

Salt

1 teaspoon, or to taste

Stock cube

1

Crayfish

1 tablespoon, ground

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

Scotch bonnet pepper

1, deseeded

Red bell pepper

1, deseeded and chopped

Onion

1 medium-sized, chopped

Instructions

1. Start by rinsing the soaked black-eyed peas under clean water. Proceed to remove the skins.
2. In a blender, combine the black-eyed peas, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, and deseeded scotch bonnet pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
3. Transfer the blended mixture into a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil, ground crayfish, crumbled stock cube, and salt. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
4. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring consistently to avoid lumps. Continue this process until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency similar to a pancake batter.
5. Grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the moi moi mixture into the greased dish(es), leaving some room for the pudding to rise during steaming.
7. Cover the dish(es) with aluminum foil to trap the steam.
8. Place the dish(es) in a steamer or a large pot with a steamer basket. If using a pot, ensure that the water level is below the steamer basket to prevent water from seeping into the moi moi.
9. Steam the moi moi over medium heat for about 45-60 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the moi moi; if it comes out clean, the moi moi is ready.
10. Remove the moi moi from the steamer, and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish warm as an appetizer or side dish.