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Nkwobi

Nkwobi is a Nigerian appetizer featuring tender plant-based meat (Vchunks) in a spicy blend of ground Ehuru seed, Cameroon pepper, sautéed onions, and palm oil. Garnished with Utazi leaves, it's a flavorful dish perfect for gatherings and a great side option.

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 150 g
    Plant-based meat (Vchunks) cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups
    Water
  • 2 tsps
    Ground Ehuru seed (African nutmeg)
  • 2 tsps
    Fresh Cameroon pepper Adjust to taste
  •  1/2 cup
    Palm oil
  • 1 medium
    Onion Chopped
  • 1/2 tsp
    Baking soda
  • Salt Adjust to taste
  • Utazi leaves (or parsley)
  • 1/2 cup
    Ugba  (oil bean) Clean and boiled

Instructions

  1. Pure the Plant-based meat in boiling water and add the pepper and salt. Cook them over medium heat until they become tender.

  2. Prepare the palm oil sauce. Heat the palm oil over low heat in a separate pot until it becomes clear (do not let it smoke). Be careful not to overheat it.

  3. Add the chopped onions to the palm oil and sauté until they become translucent.

  4. Stir in the ground Ehuru and Ugba, and cook for a few more minutes.

  5. Dissolve the baking soda in 3 tablespoon of water, then stir into the palm mixture gradually till it curdle.

  6. Drain the stock once the Vchunks are tender (Save it for later use as a broth). Allow the plant-based meat to cool, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.

  7. Add the Vchunks to the palm oil sauce and stir well to coat them with the palm oil mixture. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  8. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

  9. Serve the Nkwobi hot, garnished with Utazi leaves (or parsley) for added flavour and presentation.

Notes

You can use a pressure cooker to speed up boiling plant-based meat. Nkwobi is traditionally served as a side dish or appetizer at Nigerian gatherings. Enjoy!

About the author

Bola Adeyanju

Tags

Cuisines: Nigerian
Keywords: Nigerian appetizer, Nkwobi recipe
Difficulty: Level 2 (average)
Cooking time: 30-45 minutes
Season: General
Number ingredients: 5-10 ingredients
Taste: Savory, Spicy
Preparation method: Cooking
Campaigns: VeggieChallenge