Nigerian Porridge Beans (Ewa Riro)
Nigerian Porridge Beans (Ewa Riro)
Rich, hearty, and nourishing — Nigerian porridge beans, also known as Ewa Riro, is a one-pot dish made with honey or brown beans simmered with palm oil, spices, and seasonings until creamy and delicious. It’s a wholesome meal often paired with fried plantains, bread, or garri.
Equipment
- Large pot or pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Blender (for peppers/onions)
- Knife & chopping board
Ingredients
- 3 cups Nigerian brown beans or honey beans
- 1 medium onion, chopped (divided)
- ½ cup palm oil
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet (atarodo) peppers (adjust for heat)
- 2 tbsp ground crayfish optional but traditional
- 1 seasoning cubes (Maggi/Knorr)
- 1 tsp ground pepper optional
- ½ tsp Salt, to taste
- Water (enough to cook beans)
- 1 tbsp Adobo seasoning
Optional Add-ins
- Diced plantains (for beans & plantain porridge)
- Smoked fish or stockfish for depth of flavor
- Spinach or ugu leaves for a veggie twist
Instructions
- Wash and cook beansRinse beans thoroughly and place in a large pot. Add enough water to cover and cook until soft (about 45–60 minutes). If using a pressure cooker, 25–30 minutes.
- Blend pepper mixBlend Scotch bonnet, and the onion into a smooth puree.
- Cook pepper sauce or add directlyIn another pan, heat palm oil. Add remaining chopped onion and sauté until fragrant.Pour in blended pepper mix and fry until reduced and thickened (~10–15 minutes).
- Combine beans & sauceOnce beans are soft, add the pepper sauce into the pot. Stir well to combine.Add crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, ground pepper, and salt.
- SimmerLet the beans and sauce simmer together on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy and porridge-like.
- ServeEnjoy hot with fried plantains, bread, garri, or rice.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, mash some of the beans against the pot while stirring.
- Reduce palm oil if you prefer a lighter version.
- Add diced plantains while cooking for a sweet and savory combo.
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 14gFat: 12g
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