Sauce Graine
Sauce Graine, also known as palm nut soup, is a rich and savory stew made from palm nut concentrate. It's a staple in Ivorian cuisine, often prepared with a variety of meats and fish, and served with starchy accompaniments like fufu or rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cans (approx. 400g each) Palm nut concentrate
- 1 lb Oxtail or beef(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 piece Smoked fish (e.g., mackerel)(cleaned and flaked)
- 2-3 medium Blue crabs(cleaned)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(grated)
- 2-3 Habanero or Scotch Bonnet peppers(finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 2-3 medium Okra(sliced)
- 2 cups Water or stock
- to taste Salt
- 2 Seasoning cubes
- 1 teaspoon Ground crayfish (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Shrimp powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Red palm oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat the red palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped habanero peppers. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the oxtail or beef pieces and brown them on all sides. Add the smoked fish and crabs.
- 5
Pour in the palm nut concentrate and water or stock. Stir well to combine. Add seasoning cubes, salt, ground crayfish, and shrimp powder (if using).
- 6
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or until the meat is tender. Skim off excess red oil that rises to the surface as it cooks, if desired.
- 7
Add the sliced okra during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- 8
Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with fufu, rice, or other preferred side dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can marinate the meat overnight.
- ✓If fresh palm nuts are available, they can be used instead of concentrate, but require more preparation.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Other meats like chicken or lamb can be used.
- Add other vegetables like spinach or bitter leaves towards the end of cooking.