Kwacoco Bible
Kwacoco Bible
Kwacoco Bible is a traditional African dish made from grated cocoyam, mixed with spinach, smoked fish, and spices, then wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed to perfection. This hearty, aromatic side dish is filled with bold flavors and makes for a satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Grater or food processor
- Banana leaves or aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 3 lbs cocoyam peeled and cleaned
- 4-5 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup red oil or more adjust according to preference
- 1/2 cup ground crayfish
- 1 1/2 cup smoked fish flaked
- 1 1/2 cup smoked turkey cut in bite size piece cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 scotch bonnet pierced
- 1 bouillon powder or Maggi cube
- 1/2 tsp country onion spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat and Fish: In a medium pot, lightly simmer the smoked turkey, smoked fish, crayfish, and pierced scotch bonnet pepper along with bouillon or Maggi cube for 3-5 minutes. Set aside the pepper and reserve the stock for later.
- Prepare the Cocoyam: Peel the cocoyam using a sharp knife. Carefully cut away any blemished or discolored areas. Once peeled, cut the cocoyam into chunks and rinse immediately to prevent browning. Leave the cocoyam in cool water until ready to use.
- Grate the Cocoyam: Grate the cocoyam using a grater, or pulse it in a food processor with a little water until a coarse purée is formed. Avoid making the mixture too smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the grated cocoyam, spinach, red palm oil, smoked turkey, smoked fish, crayfish, reserved stock, salt, and country onion spice (if using).
- Prepare the Banana Leaves: Cut the banana leaves into rectangular pieces, trimming off any rough edges. Clean the leaves by submerging them in water, then pat them dry. To make the leaves more pliable, heat them over an open flame. If banana leaves are unavailable, you can use aluminum foil instead.
- Wrap the Kwacoco: Place about 1/2 to 1 cup of the cocoyam mixture onto the center of each banana leaf. Fold the sides over, creating a rectangular packet. Fold the edges tightly to ensure the mixture is sealed inside. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Steam the Kwacoco: Line the bottom of a large pot with banana leaves or a small rack to create a steamer. Add water and bring it to a boil. Place the wrapped kwacoco bundles into the pot and steam for about 1 hour, adding water as necessary.
Notes
- Plantain Leaf Substitution: If banana leaves are not available, you can use aluminum foil to wrap the kwacoco.
- Serving Suggestions: Kwacoco Bible can be enjoyed as a side dish, served alongside grilled meats or stews.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated by steaming.
Nutrition
Calories: 348kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 9gFat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 716mgPotassium: 2017mgFiber: 10gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1890IUVitamin C: 46.6mgCalcium: 86mgIron: 2.1mg
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