Amiwo with Peanut Sauce
Amiwo is a staple Beninese dish made from cornmeal, often served with a rich and savory peanut sauce. This combination is a cornerstone of Beninese cuisine, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Cornmeal
- 4 cups Water(plus more as needed)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Chicken bouillon cube(or 1 tsp powder)
- 3 tbsp Red palm oil
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Habanero pepper(minced, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Onion(diced)
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened peanut butter
- 1 tbsp Smoked dried fish powder(optional, for depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp Smoked shrimp powder(optional, for depth of flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Amiwo: In a large pot, combine cornmeal, 4 cups of water, salt, and chicken bouillon. Whisk well to ensure no lumps form.
💡 Tip: Using a whisk is crucial for a smooth amiwo. - 2
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a smooth, firm dough. This may take about 15-20 minutes. Add more water, a little at a time, if it becomes too thick.
💡 Tip: Constant stirring prevents sticking and lumps. - 3
Once thickened, cover the pot and let it steam on low heat for another 10 minutes.
- 4
Prepare the Peanut Sauce: While the amiwo is steaming, heat the red palm oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the tomato paste and minced habanero pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 6
Add the peanut butter, smoked fish powder (if using), and smoked shrimp powder (if using). Stir well to combine.
- 7
Gradually add water, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth, sauce-like consistency. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Add water slowly to control the sauce's thickness. - 8
Let the peanut sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded.
- 9
To serve, spoon a generous portion of amiwo onto a plate and top with the rich peanut sauce.
💡 Tip: Amiwo can also be served with other stews or grilled meats.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust the amount of habanero pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓For a smoother amiwo, ensure you whisk vigorously when first combining the cornmeal and water.
- ✓The optional smoked fish and shrimp powders add a traditional depth of flavor, but the sauce is still delicious without them.
🔄 Variations
- Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or mutton.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or garlic to the peanut sauce for extra flavor.