Spicy Green Pepper and Meat Stew

Dive into the rich flavors of this Spicy Green Pepper and Meat Stew, a vibrant dish that brings together the heat of green scotch bonnets with the sweetness of bell peppers. This stew, featuring a mix of tender meats and aromatic spices, is a celebration of texture and taste. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals, it’s a hearty dish that promises to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 5 green bell peppers, roughly chopped
• 6 green scotch bonnet peppers, adjust according to heat preference
• 2 whole onions, peeled
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups palm oil
• Assorted meats (such as beef, goat, and tripe), boiled, fried, and cut into bite-sized chunks
• 3 heaped tablespoons of locust beans (Iru)
• 1 cup shredded boiled smoked fish or stockfish
• 2 tablespoons crayfish powder
• Bouillon cubes, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pepper Base:
   • In a blender, combine the green bell peppers, green scotch bonnet peppers, and the two whole onions. Blend to a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary to facilitate blending.
2. Cook the Pepper Mixture:
   • Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat until it gets to a slightly smoky temperature. Carefully add the blended pepper mixture to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the pepper, indicating it is well fried.
3. Add the Flavors:
   • Stir in the chopped onion, locust beans, shredded smoked fish, crayfish powder, bouillon cubes, and salt to the fried pepper mixture. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Incorporate the Meats:
   • Add the boiled and fried assorted meats to the pot. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the meat is well coated with the sauce.
5. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the oil to rise to the top, which is a sign of a well-cooked stew.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional bouillon cubes or salt, if needed. The stew should have a rich, spicy, and slightly tangy flavor profile.
7. Serve:
   • Serve your Spicy Green Pepper and Meat Stew hot, accompanied by steamed rice, yams, or your favorite side. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for a hearty meal.

Conclusion:

This Spicy Green Pepper and Meat Stew is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves a bit of heat and a lot of flavors. Enjoy the process of making it and the delicious meal that follows!