Efo Riro - Nigerian Spinach Stew

What is Efo Riro?

Efo Riro is a popular Nigerian spinach stew that originates from the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria. It is a flavorful and rich dish made with a blend of vegetables, proteins, and a spicy tomato-pepper sauce. The name "Efo Riro" translates to "stirred leafy greens," highlighting the method of preparation where spinach or other green vegetables are cooked in a well-seasoned sauce.

Ingredients used in making Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

To make a delicious pot of Efo Riro, you will need the following ingredients:

Vegetables:

• Fresh spinach (or substitute with kale or ugu leaves)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2-3 bell peppers (red and yellow for sweetness)
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers (for heat)
• 3 medium-sized tomatoes (optional, as Efo Riro typically uses minimal tomatoes)

Proteins:

• 2 cups assorted meats (beef, goat meat, or chicken)
• 1 cup dried fish or smoked fish
• 1 cup pomo (cow skin, optional)

Other Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup palm oil
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
• 2 seasoning cubes (bouillon cubes)
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon locust beans (iru, for authentic flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper

How to make Efo Riro

Follow these simple steps to prepare Efo Riro:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop the spinach. Blend the bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers, and onions to form a smooth mixture. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat: Boil the assorted meats with salt, seasoning cubes, and onions until tender. Reserve the stock for later use.
3. Fry the Sauce: Heat palm oil in a pot, then add chopped onions and locust beans. Sauté for a minute before adding the blended pepper mixture. Cook the sauce until the oil separates.
4. Add the Proteins: Introduce the cooked meats, dried fish, and pomo into the sauce. Stir well and allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach and stir. Let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, ensuring the greens remain vibrant and not overcooked.
6. Final Seasoning: Add ground crayfish, more salt if needed, and stir well. Let it sit for a minute before serving.

What to eat with Efo Riro

Efo Riro is best enjoyed with Nigerian staples such as:

• Pounded yam
• Fufu (cassava or yam)
• Eba (garri)
• Rice
• Amala
• Boiled plantains

Tips when making African Spinach Stew

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and peppers enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.
• Avoid Excess Water: Efo Riro is not a watery soup. The sauce should be thick and well-seasoned.
• Palm Oil is Key: For authentic taste, palm oil is preferred over vegetable oil.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: To retain nutrients and color, add the spinach at the end and cook briefly.

📖 Recipe

Efo Riro - Nigerian Spinach Stew

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 large bunch spinach (or kale)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2-3 bell peppers (red/yellow)
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers
• 3 tomatoes (optional)
• 2 cups assorted meats (beef, goat, or chicken)
• 1 cup smoked fish
• 1 cup pomo (cow skin, optional)
• 1/4 cup palm oil
• 2 tbsp ground crayfish
• 2 seasoning cubes
• 1 tsp locust beans (iru)
• 1 tsp ground pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Blend peppers, onions, and tomatoes (if using).
2. Boil assorted meats with seasoning cubes, onions, and salt until tender.
3. Heat palm oil in a pot, sauté onions and locust beans.
4. Add blended pepper mix and cook until oil separates.
5. Stir in cooked meats, smoked fish, and pomo. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
6. Add spinach, stir, and let cook for 3-5 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and crayfish. Serve hot with a side of choice.

Efo Riro is a delicious, nutrient-packed dish that brings warmth and depth of flavor to any meal. Enjoy your homemade Nigerian Spinach Stew!