Mbika (Ugandan Pumpkin Seed Stew)
Mbika is a hearty and flavorful stew traditionally made with pumpkin seeds (also known as egusi seeds) and often includes smoked fish or meat. It's a rich, nutty dish that is commonly served with fufu or rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Raw pumpkin seeds (egusi)
- 0.5 cup Water
- 4 cups Vegetable or meat stock
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped or ground)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch knob Ginger(grated)
- 1.5 pounds Okra(trimmed and sliced)
- 8 oz Smoked fish or beef(optional, cooked and shredded/cubed)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 optional Jalapeno pepper(finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grind the raw pumpkin seeds with 1/2 cup of water in a blender until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the paste is smooth to avoid lumps in the stew. - 2
In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the vegetable or meat stock to a boil. If using smoked fish or beef, add it now and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the ground pumpkin seed paste to the simmering stock. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Stir continuously to prevent the paste from sticking to the bottom of the pot. - 4
Add the ground onion and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Add the sliced okra, chopped jalapeno (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
💡 Tip: Add okra towards the end to prevent it from becoming too mushy. - 6
Simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until the okra is tender but still slightly firm.
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking the okra. - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over fufu or rice.
💡 Tip: This stew is best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use homemade beef or chicken stock.
- ✓If fresh pumpkin seeds are unavailable, you can use pre-ground egusi seeds, but adjust the water accordingly.
- ✓Adjust the amount of jalapeno to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat or fish and use vegetable stock.