Moi moi is a delicious and versatile Nigerian bean pudding that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make it:
Ingredients:
* 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (or any variety of beans)
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or more to taste), finely chopped
* 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
* 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
* 1 tbsp vegetable oil
* 2-3 eggs (optional)
* 4-6 tbsp palm oil (or vegetable oil)
* Water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the beans: Rinse the beans thoroughly and soak them in water for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. Cook the beans: Drain the soaked beans and add them to a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are soft.
3. Make the moi moi mix: While the beans are cooking, prepare the moi moi mix. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked beans, onion, peppers, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. You may need to add a little water to aid the blending process.
4. Add the eggs (optional): If using, add the eggs to the blended mixture and blend again until well combined.
5. Steam the moi moi: Grease small ramekins or heat-safe bowls with palm oil. Pour the moi moi mix into the prepared ramekins, filling them about ¾ full.
6. Steam: Place the ramekins in a pot with a steamer basket. Pour water into the pot, making sure it doesn't reach the bottom of the ramekins. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Steam the moi moi for 30-40 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch.
7. Serve: Once the moi moi has cooled slightly, you can unmold it from the ramekins. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
* For a smoother texture: Pass the blended moi moi mixture through a sieve to remove any small lumps.
* Flavor variations: Add other spices like ginger, curry powder, or paprika to your moi moi mix for different flavor profiles.
* Alternative steaming method: You can also steam the moi moi using banana leaves. Simply line a steamer basket with banana leaves and pour the moi moi mix onto the leaves.
* Storage: Leftover moi moi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade moi moi!