Ononu Recipe
Onunu is a traditional Nigerian dish that is popularly served in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. It is a meal that is made from yam and plantains, mashed together with palm oil and sometimes with added spices and vegetables. The dish is often served with a deliciously spiced fish stew, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
To make Onunu, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound of yam
2 ripe plantains
1/2 cup of palm oil
Salt to taste
1/2 cup of diced onions
1/2 cup of diced bell peppers
1/4 cup of diced scallions
1 habanero pepper, chopped (optional for spice)
You will also need the following kitchen equipment:
A large pot for boiling the yam and plantains
A potato masher or a fork for mashing the yam and plantains
A frying pan for sautéing the onions, bell peppers, and scallions
A blender or food processor (optional for pureeing the habanero pepper)
Now, let's get started on making Onunu!
Peel and cut the yam and plantains into small cubes and add them to a pot of boiling water. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Drain the water from the pot and mash the yam and plantains together with a potato masher or fork until well combined.
In a frying pan, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and scallions and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the mashed yam and plantains and mix well.
If you want your Onunu to be spicy, puree the habanero pepper in a blender or food processor and add it to the mixture. Alternatively, you can add diced habanero pepper directly to the dish.
Add salt to taste and continue to mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Serve hot with a side of spiced fish stew or any other soup of your choice.
Allergy concerns: This recipe contains palm oil which can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you are allergic to palm oil, you can substitute it with another type of oil like coconut oil or vegetable oil.
Spicy level: The spiciness of this dish can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer it less spicy, you can omit the habanero pepper or reduce the amount used.
Healthy alternatives: If you want to make this dish healthier, you can use less palm oil and substitute it with a healthier oil like coconut oil or vegetable oil. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or collard greens to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
Calories intake: The estimated calories in this recipe is about 400 calories per serving.
Amazon links for ingredients and equipment:
Palm oil: Click to Buy
Potato masher: Click to Buy
Frying pan: Click to Buy
Blender: Click to Buy
Food processor: Click to Buy