Vernonia - Bitter leaf - Amanvivè Dream it Dream it

Ingredients

  • 60g dried bitter leaf

  • 2 red onions, sliced

  • 4 fresh tomatoes (chopped) or 250g tomato paste

  • 4 green peppers, sliced

  • 1/4 cup palm oil (or any oil of your choice)

  • Salt, to taste

  • 50g traditional mustard (Afintin)

  • 500g smoked fish, fried fish, or protein of choice

  • A pinch of baking soda

Preparation

  1. Prepare the Dried Bitter Leaf

    • Rinse the dried bitter leaf thoroughly.

    • Soak in warm water for about 10–15 minutes to rehydrate and soften.

    • Add a pinch of baking soda and briefly boil the leaves to reduce bitterness, then drain and set aside.

  2. Make the Sauce

    • Heat palm oil in a large pot over medium heat.

    • Add sliced onions and sauté until they soften and become translucent.

    • Add chopped tomatoes or tomato paste, stirring until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce.

  3. Add Vegetables and Seasoning

    • Add the sliced green peppers and rehydrated bitter leaf to the pot, stirring well.

    • Stir in Afintin and season with salt to taste.

    • Let everything simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

  4. Add the Protein

    • Gently fold in the smoked or fried fish (or any chosen protein).

    • Simmer for another 5–10 minutes, ensuring the flavors are fully absorbed.

  5. Serve

    • Serve hot with rice, fufu, pounded yam, or any other traditional side.

Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful stew! The bitter leaf, combined with Afintin and rich spices, brings a unique taste of West Africa to your table.