Ofada Stew is a native Nigerian one-pot stew made with a combination of peppers (Red Peppers). This dish has unique deep and bold flavours from the bleached palm oil and locust beans.
Ofada Stew (Obe Ata Dindin) originated in the Western part of Nigeria, is particular to the Yoruba tribe, and is often served with Ofada rice. There are two types of Ofada Stew; one is made with Green Bell Peppers called Ayamase, and the other is made with Red Bell Peppers called Ofada Stew. In this recipe today, we are focusing on the red bell pepper stew. You can check out my Ayamase Stew recipe.
Savor the rich, gamey flavors of our tender African goat meat stew and Doro wat a dish that exemplifies the robust cuisine of the continent. This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, including the cassava leaf stew. For those looking to explore more unique flavors, our recipe for the spicy Mbongo Tchobi stew, offers an exciting twist on traditional stews. Vegetarians need not miss out on these complex flavors – try our African beans stew for a satisfying meatless alternative.
What's in my Ofada Stew?
- Red Bell Peppers
- Onions
- Locust Beans
- Bleached Palm Oil
- Habanero Peppers
- Meats (Beef, Tripe, and Cow skin)
- Salt and Seasoning Powder
- Crayfish
- Hard Boiled Eggs
Recipe Tips and Variations.
- In this recipe, you can use any meat of your choice. Also, smoked fish and smoked shrimp are good options to be added.
- DO NOT blend the peppers to be smooth but coarse. A food processor will be an excellent option to blend the peppers coarsely.
- To reduce cooking time. I usually strain some water from the blended peppers because you must cook until the peppers dry off or till the oil floats. But, if you do not mind, you can skip this part.
- You can also fry the meats in the heated bleached oil before sauteing the locust beans and onions.
- Unfortunately, vegetable oil can't be used.
- The eggs must be hard-boiled and not runny.
- This spicy, aromatic stew pairs perfectly with Ofada rice, but also complements other West African dishes like Cameroonian Ekwang. For a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, serve Ofada stew alongside corn and bean Cornchaff. If you're looking to create a diverse African feast, consider adding Kwacoco and Banga soup.
How To Bleach Palm Oil.
Bleached palm oil gives this dish its unique flavour and taste. Either use the store-bought one, or you can bleach it yourself. In my other Ayamase recipe, I explained how to bleach palm oil. Please feel free to check it HERE.
What Can I Serve It With
Most often, Ofada stew is served with Ofada Rice. Any rice will also taste good with it.
Storage Tips
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days and in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Ofada Stew
Ingredients
- 5-6 Red bell peppers deseeded
- 1 kg Beef, tripe, cow skin
- 1 large Onion
- 3 Habanero peppers
- 1 cup Bleached palm oil
- 1 tablespoon Locust beans (iru)
- ¼ cup Crayfish
- 2 teaspoon Seasoning powder 1 teaspoon to boil meats and 1 teaspoon for stew
- 2 teaspoon Salt 1 teaspoon to boil meats and 1 teaspoon for stew
Instructions
- Season the meats with salt and seasoning powder. Add water and boil on high heat until tender.
- Remove the meats from the broth and set aside. You may or may not need the broth.
- Wash, deseed and slice bell peppers. Transfer to a food processor with the habaneros and process until coarse. Strain to remove some liquid.
- Add the palm oil into a pot on medium heat, cover and bleach until it turns pale or dark yellow. See notes for tips on how to bleach palm oil.
- Sauté the onion and locust beans until the onion becomes fragrant.
- Add the pepper mix, crayfish, salt and seasoning powder. Stir to combine.
- Let it cook for about 15 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. You can add water or stock, depending on how you want it.
- Add the meats and boiled eggs. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
- Serve with rice.
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Bilikis says
Always given the best recipe
Bilikis says
This recipe is the best.It looks so delicious and Yummy
Adebayo Bilikis Toyin says
Cooking with Claudy she is an amazing cook
Thanks so much for the kind words. I truly appreciate
Bilikis says
Always given the best.