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Delightful Egusi Stew with vibrant colors

The comforting aroma of a rich pot of egusi stew simmering gently on the stove is simply bliss. This beloved dish brings together the nutty warmth of ground egusi, the deep, earthy flavor of Banga, and the unique tang of Ugba, blended into a hearty, wholesome meal that brings feelings of gratitude at each bite. Lovingly layered with fresh vegetables and seasoned to taste, this stew is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing around the table with family and friends.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Onions (blended + diced)
  • Tomatoes (blended + diced)
  • Ugba (blended)
  • Tomato paste
  • Salt, mixed seasoning
  • Banga extract (palm fruit concentrate)
  • Ground egusi (melon seeds)
  • Water
  • Bell peppers, spring onions
  • Leafy vegetables (e.g., ugu or spinach)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Blend onions, tomatoes, and Ugba until smooth.
  2. Steam the paste: In a pot over low heat, add tomato paste and steam for 10 minutes.
  3. Season: Add blended onions, salt, and mixed seasoning. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
  4. Add Banga: Pour in the Banga extract and bring to a boil.
  5. Form Egusi paste: In a bowl, mix ground egusi with water and a teaspoon of salt to form a thick paste.
  6. Cook Egusi Balls: Gently scoop the Egusi paste into the boiling broth. Do not stir. Cover and cook on low heat for 30 minutes until the balls set and darken.
  7. Layer in flavours: Add diced tomatoes and onions. Cook for 10 more minutes.
  8. Finish with vegetables: Add bell peppers, spring onions, and leafy vegetables. Stir gently to allow egusi balls to break slightly and enrich the stew.
  9. Turn off the heat and let the stew rest.
  10. Serve with your preferred carbohydrate. Pray and enjoy.

Notes

Unlike traditional Egusi soup, this recipe uses a minimal amount of egusi, not as the base but as a flavorful enhancement. The egusi is formed into delicate balls that simmer in the stew, adding a rich, nutty depth and unique texture. Though used sparingly, this step is essential to achieving the stew’s signature taste and hearty richness.

  • Author: Marybeth Ubanwa
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: African

Keywords: egusi, banga, ugba, egusi balls, Nigerian stew, traditional recipe, palm fruit sauce, healthy stew, West African food, comfort food, vegetable stew, egusi banga, Nigerian cuisine, hearty meal, home-cooked, flavorful sauce, African recipes, stew with ugba, palm oil broth, egusi paste

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