Nigerian Spinach Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nigerian Spinach Stew is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and earthy flavors. The richness of tomatoes and onions pairs beautifully with the bitterness of spinach, creating a satisfying combination that is both nourishing and filling. It’s incredibly versatile – you can add your choice of protein like chicken, beef, or fish, or make it a hearty vegetarian option. It’s simple to prepare, yet packs an impressive punch of flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach)

• Palm oil (or vegetable oil)

• Tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• Red bell pepper

• Onion

• Garlic

• Scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)

• Ground crayfish (optional for added flavor)

• Seasoning cubes or powder

• Salt to taste

• Water or broth (for consistency)

• Protein of choice (e.g., chicken, beef, fish, or tofu)

Directions

1. If using fresh spinach, wash thoroughly and chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen spinach, defrost and set aside.

2. Heat palm oil (or vegetable oil) in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent.

3. Add the garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Stir in the ground crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, and salt. Adjust to taste.

6. Add the spinach, stirring gently to combine with the tomato mixture. If the stew is too thick, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

7. Cover and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld.

8. If adding protein, stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Serve hot with rice, fufu, or any other preferred side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

• Add a protein like chicken, beef, goat meat, or fish for a more filling dish.

• Use different greens such as kale or collard greens if spinach is not available.

• For a vegan option, skip the meat and consider adding tofu for protein.

• Adjust the level of heat by reducing or omitting the scotch bonnet pepper.

• For a thicker stew, blend some of the tomatoes with the peppers before cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Nigerian Spinach Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. This stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

FAQs

What is the difference between Nigerian spinach stew and other spinach stews?

Nigerian spinach stew often uses palm oil, ground crayfish, and scotch bonnet peppers, which contribute to its distinct flavor. It is typically richer and spicier compared to other versions of spinach stew.

Can I make Nigerian Spinach Stew without palm oil?

Yes, you can substitute palm oil with vegetable or coconut oil, though the flavor will be slightly different.

What can I serve with Nigerian Spinach Stew?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, pounded yam, fufu, plantains, or boiled yam.

Is Nigerian Spinach Stew spicy?

It can be spicy, depending on how much scotch bonnet pepper you use. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, frozen spinach works well for this stew. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

How do I prevent the spinach from overcooking?

Add the spinach towards the end of the cooking process and simmer for only a few minutes to keep it vibrant and prevent it from wilting too much.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas for more variety and nutrition.

How do I make the stew thicker?

You can blend part of the tomato and pepper mixture to create a thicker base or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry to the stew.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, traditional Nigerian spinach stew often includes meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the stew.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days and actually improves in flavor as it sits.

Conclusion

Nigerian Spinach Stew is a comforting, flavorful, and highly versatile dish that showcases the best of Nigerian cuisine. Whether you’re serving it with rice or traditional sides like fufu, it’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers rich taste with every bite. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this stew is a perfect addition to your meal rotation.

Nigerian Spinach Stew

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Nigerian Spinach Stew, also known as ‘Efo Riro,’ is a flavorful and hearty dish that is beloved in Nigerian cuisine. Packed with nutrient-dense spinach, tomatoes, onions, and a rich blend of spices, this stew is perfect for pairing with rice, fufu, or other traditional staples. Its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients make it a comforting and satisfying meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Nigerian

Ingredients

Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach)

Palm oil (or vegetable oil)

Tomatoes (fresh or canned)

Red bell pepper

Onion

Garlic

Scotch bonnet pepper (optional for heat)

Ground crayfish (optional for added flavor)

Seasoning cubes or powder

Salt to taste

Water or broth (for consistency)

Protein of choice (e.g., chicken, beef, fish, or tofu)

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Instructions

1. If using fresh spinach, wash thoroughly and chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen spinach, defrost and set aside.
2. Heat palm oil (or vegetable oil) in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent.
3. Add the garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in the ground crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, and salt. Adjust to taste.
6. Add the spinach, stirring gently to combine with the tomato mixture. If the stew is too thick, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Cover and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld.
8. If adding protein, stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Serve hot with rice, fufu, or any other preferred side.

Notes

• Add a protein like chicken, beef, goat meat, or fish for a more filling dish.
• Use different greens such as kale or collard greens if spinach is not available.
• For a vegan option, skip the meat and consider adding tofu for protein.
• Adjust the level of heat by reducing or omitting the scotch bonnet pepper.
• For a thicker stew, blend some of the tomatoes with the peppers before cooking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg