Plantain and Bean Stew (Red Red): A Simple and Delicious Recipe

“Red Red,” or plantain and bean stew, is one of the most well-liked and tasty meals in Ghanaian cooking. With a savory, spicy tomato stew on top, this filling dish balances the sweetness of ripe plantains with the richness of beans. This easy and tasty recipe is ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks, regardless of your culinary interests or desire to attempt a new dish.

We’ll take you through the process of making this cozy cuisine in this post, along with some helpful hints and outside resources to make cooking even more fun.

What is Red Red?

Red Red is a typical Ghanaian food that consists of a rich stew made with red tomatoes and beans, commonly black-eyed peas. The dish’s name refers to the tomato sauce’s vivid, spicy flavor and striking red hue. Red Red is the ideal combination of savory and sweet ingredients, and while it can be served with rice or yam, it’s most frequently served with fried plantains.

In addition to being delicious, this recipe also nourishing. A well-balanced meal with lots of protein, fiber, and vitamins is produced when plantains and beans are combined.

Ingredients for Plantain and Bean Stew (Red Red)

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this simple and tasty meal:

• 2 ripe plantains (peeled and sliced into rounds)
• 1 cup dried beans (black-eyed peas or any preferred beans)
• 3 medium-sized tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)
• Water (as needed for cooking)
• 1 teaspoon bouillon cubes or seasoning powder (optional)

How to Make Plantain and Bean Stew (Red Red)

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Wash the beans thoroughly and soak them in water for a few hours or overnight to soften.
2. After soaking, cook the beans in a pot with enough water until they become soft (this typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour). You can also use canned beans if you want to save time.
3. Once the beans are cooked, set them aside. Be sure to reserve some of the cooking liquid for later use in the stew.

Step 2: Fry the Plantains

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the sliced plantains in batches, turning them occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Red Red Stew

1. In a separate pot, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, then stir for a minute to release the aromatic flavors.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes a thick sauce.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and ground pepper, followed by the cooked beans and some of the reserved cooking liquid. You may add a little water if needed to get your desired stew consistency.
5. Add salt to taste and, if you like, a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes.
6. Allow the stew to simmer for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Serve Your Red Red

Once the stew is ready, place the fried plantains on a plate and generously top with the bean stew. Serve with a side of rice or enjoy as is for a truly comforting meal.

Tips for a Perfect Red Red

1. Choosing the right plantain: Make sure to use ripe plantains. They should have yellow or black peels, which are sweet and perfect for frying. Unripe green plantains are not suitable for this recipe.
2. Spicing it up: You can add some chili pepper or hot pepper sauce to the stew to give it an extra kick, depending on your spice tolerance.
3. Substitute beans: While black-eyed peas are most commonly used in Red Red, you can experiment with other types of beans like kidney beans, navy beans, or chickpeas for a variation.
4. Make it vegetarian: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can skip the seasoning cubes or use a vegetable bouillon cube instead.
5. Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors will deepen and get even better as it sits.

Nutritional Benefits of Red Red

• Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients.
• Plantains are rich in potassium, vitamin A, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious and filling addition to your meal.
• Tomatoes and onions provide antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to overall health and well-being.

Where to Learn More About Ghanaian Cuisine

For more information on Ghanaian dishes, you can explore these external links:

• Ghana Tourism Authority: Explore Ghana’s Traditional Foods
• The Best Ghanaian Food Recipes
• Ghanaian Cuisine: A Cultural Experience

Conclusion

Red Red Plantain and Bean Stew is a straightforward, delectable, and nourishing dish that embodies Ghanaian cooking. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to try something new or for people who enjoy filling, tasty meals. Red Red will please your palate whether you eat it for lunch, dinner, or as a special occasion dish.

Enjoy your cooking, and remember to share this wonderful recipe with friends and family. Happy eating!