Liberian Pumpkin Stew
Liberian Pumpkin Stew
Liberian Pumpkin Soup is a hearty and savory dish featuring tender pumpkin or butternut squash, simmered with rich spices, meat, and fish. Perfect for enjoying with rice, quinoa, or any grain of your choice, it’s a comforting taste of Liberia in every bite. 🍲🇱🇷
Equipment
- Large stock pot
- Deep fryer or frying pan
Ingredients
- 1 pumpkin or butternut squash peeled and diced
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1 onion sliced
- 1-2 habanero peppers or to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 lb mixed meat or fish e.g., chicken, shrimp, pig feet, beef cubes, red snapper
- 2 cups water or meat broth
- Seasoning of choice e.g., black pepper, Adobo seasoning, chicken bouillon, seasoned salt
Instructions
- Season and Cook Meat: In a large stock pot, season the meat with black pepper, Adobo seasoning, chicken bouillon, and salt. Add just enough water to cover the meat and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender. Set aside the broth for later.
- Marinate Fish: Season the fish with similar spices and set it in the refrigerator to marinate while the meat cooks. If you have a deep fryer, you can use it to fry the fish separately. If not, fry it later using the same oil for the pumpkin.
- Prepare the Pumpkin: Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and peel off the skin. Dice the flesh into medium-sized cubes. Rinse the diced pumpkin in water and drain.
- Fry the Pumpkin: Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a piece of onion—if it sizzles, the oil is ready. Carefully add the diced pumpkin and fry for about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomato Paste and Peppers: After 5 minutes, add the sliced onion, tomato paste, and blended habanero peppers to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Broth and Meat: Pour in the reserved broth from the cooked meat, adding the meat pieces back into the pot. Mix well and let the mixture simmer on medium heat for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add Fish and Remaining Ingredients: Gently add the fried fish, shrimp, and any other delicate ingredients. Stir to combine and cook for another 10 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly and the soup thickens.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy hot with rice, quinoa, or your preferred grain.
Notes
- 🌶️ Be careful when handling habanero peppers to avoid burns; wearing gloves is recommended.
- 🍲 Feel free to use butternut squash as an alternative to pumpkin—it works just as well!
Nutrition
Calories: 348kcalProtein: 18gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgVitamin A: 8000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 3mg
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