Ibiharage
Rwandan Fried Beans
Ibiharage is a flavorful and simple Rwandan dish of fried beans, often seasoned with onions, garlic, and a hint of spice. It's a staple in Rwandan cuisine, typically served as a side dish with rice, meat, or other main courses.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Cooked white beans(canned or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 3 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Ground red pepper(or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is shimmering but not smoking. - 2
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
💡 Tip: Do not let the garlic burn. - 3
Add the cooked white beans to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground red pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Adjust the red pepper for desired level of heat. - 4
Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 7-12 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and the flavors to meld.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 5
Serve hot as a side dish with meat, rice, or other Rwandan main courses.
💡 Tip: Ibiharage is excellent with grilled meats or stews.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the beans.
- ✓If using dried beans, soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before proceeding with the recipe.
- ✓Some variations include adding chopped tomatoes or bell peppers with the onions and garlic.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cumin for an earthy note.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of red bell pepper puree for color and a slight sweetness.
- Use kidney beans instead of white beans for a different texture and color.