Ghanaian Fried Plantain Stew (Ay3 Wo Adesoa)
A flavorful and hearty stew made with ripe plantains, tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with rice or fufu. This dish highlights the versatility of plantains in Ghanaian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 large Ripe plantains(peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds)
- 0.5 cup Vegetable oil(for frying plantains)
- 1 large Onions(chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped or crushed)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
- 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.25 cup Groundnut paste (peanut butter)(smooth, unsweetened)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Coriander leaves(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 2
In the same skillet (or a pot), sauté the chopped onions until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes💡 Tip: You can add a little more oil if needed. - 3
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: If using fresh tomatoes, cook until they break down. - 6
In a small bowl, whisk the groundnut paste with a little warm water or broth until smooth. Add this mixture to the simmering stew and stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the groundnut paste is smooth prevents lumps. - 7
Let the stew simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 8
Gently add the fried plantain slices to the stew and let them simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb some of the flavors. Be careful not to break the plantains.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 9
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot with rice, fufu, or other Ghanaian staples.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use ripe plantains for a sweeter stew.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add some cooked chicken or fish to the stew.
🔄 Variations
- Add chunks of cooked chicken or fish towards the end of cooking.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- For a spicier version, add more scotch bonnet or a pinch of cayenne pepper.