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
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150 gPlant-based meat (Vchunks) cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 cupsWater
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2 tspsGround Ehuru seed (African nutmeg)
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2 tspsFresh Cameroon pepper Adjust to taste
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1/2 cupPalm oil
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1 mediumOnion Chopped
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1/2 tspBaking soda
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Salt Adjust to taste
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Utazi leaves (or parsley)
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1/2 cupUgba (oil bean) Clean and boiled
Instructions
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Pure the Plant-based meat in boiling water and add the pepper and salt. Cook them over medium heat until they become tender.
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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.
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Add the chopped onions to the palm oil and sauté until they become translucent.
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Stir in the ground Ehuru and Ugba, and cook for a few more minutes.
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Dissolve the baking soda in 3 tablespoon of water, then stir into the palm mixture gradually till it curdle.
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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.
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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.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
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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!