Connect with us

FOOD

Yummy Turkey Pepper Soup Recipe By Dolapo Grey

Published

on

FOOD

3 Delicious Recipes For Making Akidi (Black Beans)

Published

on

3 Delicious Recipes for Making Akidi (Black Beans) | fab.ng

Akidi (black beans) recipes are a cornerstone of Enugu State’s culinary heritage, enjoyed widely across Nigeria and Africa. This versatile legume, rich in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, makes it a nutritious staple in many homes.

Originating from Enugu, akidi holds a special place in traditional dishes, offering robust flavour and health benefits.

If you’re looking to expand your cooking repertoire, these three delicious akidi (black beans) recipes will elevate your meals.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen novice, each akidi (black beans) recipe provides a unique taste experience.

Embrace the richness of Enugu’s culture and impress your family with these flavourful and nutritious dishes featuring the beloved black beans.

Recipe 1: Classic Akidi Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried black beans (akidi)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons palm oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried crayfish
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 stock cube
  • Water

Instructions:

  1. Soak the beans: Rinse the black beans and soak them in water overnight.
  2. Cook the beans: Drain the soaked beans and add them to a pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the palm oil in a separate pot. Add the chopped onion and scotch bonnet peppers, and sauté until fragrant.
  4. Combine the ingredients: Add the sautéed ingredients to the pot of cooked beans. Stir in the dried crayfish, salt, black pepper, and stock cube.
  5. Simmer and serve: Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the flavours are well combined. Serve hot.

Recipe 2: Akidi with Spinach and Plantain

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked black beans (akidi)
  • 1 bunch spinach, chopped
  • 2 ripe plantains, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Add the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.
  3. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked black beans, curry powder, and turmeric powder to the pot. Stir to combine.
  4. Fry the plantains: In a separate pan, fry the plantain slices until golden brown.
  5. Serve: Serve the akidi and spinach mixture with the fried plantains.

Recipe 3: Akidi with Smoked Fish and Vegetables

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked black beans (akidi)
  • 1 smoked fish, crumbled
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot. Add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
  2. Add the beans and smoked fish: Add the cooked black beans and crumbled smoked fish to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Season and simmer: Season with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavours are well-combined.
  4. Serve: Serve the akidi with smoked fish and vegetables hot with rice, yam, or bread.

These three akidi (black beans) recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours to create your own unique dishes.

Remember, the key to a delicious akidi dish is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook slowly to allow the flavours to develop.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these akidi (black beans) recipes are a great way to enjoy this nutritious and flavourful legume.

For more articles on food recipes, visit here.

Continue Reading

FOOD

5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic

Published

on

5 Health Benefits of Cooking With Garlic | fab.ng

Garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it offers numerous health benefits that have been celebrated for centuries. Incorporating garlic into your meals not only enriches the taste but also boosts your overall well-being.

Let’s explore five key health benefits of garlic, emphasising why this simple ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen.

1. Boosts Heart Health

Garlic is renowned for its heart-protective properties. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels, which are crucial factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Allicin, a compound found in garlic, relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Regular consumption of garlic may also prevent artery hardening, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clearly, one of the primary health benefits of garlic is its contribution to a healthy heart.

2. Strengthens the Immune System

Garlic acts as a powerful immune booster. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties help the body fend off infections. Rich in antioxidants, garlic combats free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness.

Cooking with garlic regularly can support your immune system, making it more resilient against common colds and flu. This vital health benefit of garlic makes it a natural defence mechanism.

3. Improves Digestive Health

Garlic promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Its antimicrobial properties can help balance gut flora, reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.

Additionally, garlic may reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Including garlic in your diet can improve overall digestive function, emphasising another essential health benefit of garlic.

4. Enhances Bone Health

Surprisingly, garlic may also support strong bones. It contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and selenium, which are vital for bone density and strength.

Some studies suggest that garlic consumption can increase estrogen levels in women, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

This lesser-known health benefit of garlic highlights its role beyond the kitchen, contributing to long-term skeletal health.

5. Supports Detoxification

Garlic aids the body’s natural detoxification process by activating liver enzymes that help eliminate toxins. Its sulfur compounds enhance liver function, enabling the body to flush out heavy metals and harmful substances more efficiently.

Regularly cooking with garlic can provide a natural cleanse, supporting overall vitality. This detoxifying health benefit of garlic underscores its importance for maintaining internal balance.

Incorporating Garlic into Your Diet

Maximise these health benefits by adding garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces. Crush or chop it and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its beneficial compounds.

Remember, the health benefits of garlic are most potent when it’s used fresh and minimally cooked.

Cooking with garlic not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers significant health advantages. Embrace this versatile ingredient and enjoy the multiple health benefits of garlic with every meal.

Would you like more articles or additional tips? Check here.

Continue Reading

FOOD

How To Make Crispy Plantain Chips At Home

Published

on

Plantain Chips Recipe | fab.ng

Do you want to learn how to make plantain chips with the best recipe? Well, plantain chips are a popular snack in many parts of the world, especially in Africa and the Caribbean.

They are crispy and savoury and can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of dips. Making plantain chips at home is a fun and easy process that allows you to control the ingredients and customise the flavour.

Now, if your answer to the first question above is “yes,” read on to learn how to make the best crispy plantain chips at home.

Ingredients for Plantain Chips Recipe

  • Ripe plantains
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Optional seasonings: paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder

Equipment Needed for Plantain Chips Recipe

  • Large pot or deep fryer
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Paper towels

Recipe for Making Crispy Plantain Chips at Home

1. Prepare the Plantains:

  • Peel the ripe plantains. Ripe plantains have a yellow or brownish-yellow colour and are slightly soft.
  • Cut the plantains into thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.

2. Soak the Plantain Slices:

  • To prevent the plantain slices from turning brown, soak them in a bowl of cold water with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This will help to neutralise the enzymes that cause browning.

3. Dry the Plantain Slices:

  • Remove the plantain slices from the water and pat them dry with paper towels.

4. Heat the Oil:

  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of plantain into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the Plantain Slices:

  • Working in small batches, carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per batch.

6. Drain the Plantain Chips:

  • Remove the fried plantain chips from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.

7. Season the Plantain Chips:

  • While the plantain chips are still warm, sprinkle them with salt and any other desired seasonings.

8. Cool and Serve:

  • Let the plantain chips cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tips for the Perfect Plantain Chips Recipe

  • Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy plantain chips. If the oil is too hot, the chips will burn; if it’s too cold, they will be greasy.
  • Plantain Ripeness: Use ripe plantains for the best flavour and texture. Underripe plantains will be too hard and difficult to fry.
  • Drying the Plantain Slices: Make sure the plantain slices are completely dry before frying. Excess moisture can cause the oil to splatter and the chips to become soggy.
  • Batch Size: Fry the plantain chips in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and ensure even cooking.
  • Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavours. Some popular options include chilli powder, cumin, and curry powder.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily make delicious and crispy plantain chips at home. This plantain chips recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying snack.

Click here to find more recipes to try.

Continue Reading

Latest

Everton confirm majority takeover by Friedkin Group | fab.ng Everton confirm majority takeover by Friedkin Group | fab.ng
SPORTS2 hours ago

Everton Confirm Majority Takeover By Friedkin Group To End Moshiri Tenure

The Friedkin Group has acquired a 94.1% stake in Everton, becoming the Premier League club’s new majority owner. The American...

Elozonam on how ‘japa’ makes it hard for him to make friends | fab.ng Elozonam on how ‘japa’ makes it hard for him to make friends | fab.ng
ENTERTAINMENT3 hours ago

Elozonam Reflects On How “Japa” Makes It Hard For Him To Make Friends

Former BBNaija star and content creator Elozonam revealed how Nigeria’s “japa” syndrome—where individuals emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad—has...

AY says Netflix struggles in Nigeria with 300k subscribers | fab.ng AY says Netflix struggles in Nigeria with 300k subscribers | fab.ng
MOVIES3 hours ago

Netflix Struggles In Nigeria With Only About 300k Subscribers – Comedian AY

Comedian and filmmaker AY Makun has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the alleged decision by Netflix to pause funding...

RMD celebrates his daughter's graduation | fab.ng RMD celebrates his daughter's graduation | fab.ng
ENTERTAINMENT4 hours ago

RMD Celebrates Daughter’s Graduation From American University

Nollywood actor Richard Mofe Damijo, popularly known as RMD, proudly celebrated his daughter’s university graduation with a heartfelt social media...

CKay tops the list of RIAA best-selling Nigerian artists | fab.ng CKay tops the list of RIAA best-selling Nigerian artists | fab.ng
MUSIC5 hours ago

CKay Tops The List Of RIAA Best-Selling Nigerian Artists

Nigerian pop music continues to make waves globally, particularly in the United States, where Afrobeats artists achieve groundbreaking commercial milestones....

How To Avoid Your Village People This Holiday Season | fab.ng How To Avoid Your Village People This Holiday Season | fab.ng
LIFESTYLE1 day ago

How To Avoid Your Village People This Holiday Season

It’s that time of the year again, and if you want to avoid village people, brace yourself for the festive...

UK tightens financial requirements for 2025 visa applicants | fa.ng UK tightens financial requirements for 2025 visa applicants | fa.ng
NEWS1 day ago

UK Tightens Financial Requirements For 2025 Visa Applicants

The United Kingdom has introduced updated financial requirements for visa applicants in 2025, citing rising living costs and inflation as...

Adekunle Gold on how Nigeria drains your excellence | fab.ng Adekunle Gold on how Nigeria drains your excellence | fab.ng
ENTERTAINMENT1 day ago

Something About Nigeria Drains Your Excellence – Adekunle Gold

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold ignited widespread discussions online after openly expressing his frustrations with life in Nigeria. On December 17,...

Toyosi Etim-Effiong says she doesn't trust her husband 100 | fab.ng Toyosi Etim-Effiong says she doesn't trust her husband 100 | fab.ng
ENTERTAINMENT1 day ago

Toyosi Etim-Effiong Says She Doesn’t Trust Her Husband 100%

Toyosi Etim-Effiong, the wife of Nigerian actor Daniel Etim-Effiong, recently stirred reactions by admitting that she does not completely trust...

How To Avoid Billing In December | fab.ng How To Avoid Billing In December | fab.ng
LIFESTYLE1 day ago

How To Avoid Billing This December

As a Nigerian adult, you understand that December isn’t merely a festive season—it’s the ultimate billing battlefield. In this case,...

-Ad-

under40ceos-starting-a-business
under40ceos-starting-a-business

Trending