Yam Porridge (Asaro)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized yam, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1/2 cup palm oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 tomatoes, chopped
• 2-3 bell peppers (red or green), chopped
• 2-3 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste), chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Assorted meats (beef, tripe, liver, or goat meat), cooked and diced
• Stockfish and/or dried fish, soaked and flaked
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
• 2-3 stock cubes or seasoning cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups leafy vegetables (spinach, ugu, or kale), chopped
• Water (as needed)

Instructions:

1.Prepare the Ingredients:

• Peel and cut the yam into bite-sized cubes.
• Chop the onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and Scotch bonnet peppers.
• Cook and dice the assorted meats.

2. Cook the Stew:

• Heat the palm oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened.

3. Incorporate Meats and Fish:

• Add the cooked and diced assorted meats, flaked stockfish, and dried fish to the pot. Stir to combine.

4. Add Yam and Seasonings:

• Add the yam cubes to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover the yams and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Add ground crayfish, stock cubes, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer until the yams are partially cooked.

5. Cook Yam Porridge:

• Continue cooking the yam porridge over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more water if needed.
• Cook until the yams are soft and the porridge reaches your desired consistency.

6. Add Leafy Vegetables:

• Add the chopped leafy vegetables to the pot. Stir and let the porridge simmer until the vegetables are tender.

7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

• Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the Yam Porridge hot, and enjoy it on its own or with a side of protein.

Yam Porridge (Asaro) is a hearty and satisfying dish that showcases the rich flavours of Nigerian cuisine.