Akple with Okro Stew

Ingredients

• For Akple: For Akple:
• 2 cups (400g) fermented cornmeal 2 cups (400g) fermented cornmeal
• 3 cups (710ml) water 3 cups (710ml) water
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• For Okro Stew: For Okro Stew:
• 2 cups (300g) okra, sliced 2 cups (300g) okra, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   - For Akple:
2. 2.
   1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
3. 3.
   2. Gradually add the fermented cornmeal while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
4. 4.
   3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   4. Once the akple is cooked and has a thick consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. 6.
   5. Wet your hands with water and shape the akple into small balls or dumplings.
7. 7.
8. 8.
   - For Okro Stew:
9. 9.
   1. Heat the palm oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
10. 10.
    2. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
11. 11.
    3. Add the tomatoes and cook until they soften.
12. 12.
    4. Stir in the okra, cayenne pepper, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
13. 13.
    5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the stew simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
14. 14.
    6. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Ensure that the cornmeal is properly fermented for the authentic taste and texture of akple.
• Okra — Choose fresh and tender okra pods for the best results. Trim the ends and slice them evenly for even cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the okro stew, you can add some smoked fish or shrimp.
• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped chili peppers.
• Serve the akple and okro stew hot for the best taste and texture.
• Leftover akple can be reheated by steaming or pan-frying for a crispy exterior.

Serving advice

Serve the akple with a generous portion of okro stew on top. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the akple dumplings neatly on a plate and pour the okro stew over them. Sprinkle some additional spices or herbs on top for an appealing presentation.