Tajik-inspired Spinach Stew

Ingredients

While the original Nigerian Efo-Riro is typically made with Nigerian spices and ingredients, this Tajik-inspired Spinach Stew incorporates Tajik flavors and spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom. The addition of these spices gives the stew a unique and aromatic taste that sets it apart from the original dish. Additionally, the stew is traditionally served with Tajik flatbread or rice, adding a Tajik touch to the meal. We alse have the original recipe for Efo-Riro, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• 500g spinach, washed and chopped 500g spinach, washed and chopped
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste Pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 7g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they soften.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cardamom, and cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.
5. 5.
   Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir well to combine with the spices.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the Tajik-inspired Spinach Stew hot with Tajik flatbread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Chop the spinach into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the stew for added texture and flavor.
• Serve the stew with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for a creamy twist.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the stew using an immersion blender before serving.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Serving advice

Serve the Tajik-inspired Spinach Stew hot with Tajik flatbread or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Present the Tajik-inspired Spinach Stew in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant green color of the stew to shine through. Serve it alongside Tajik flatbread or rice, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.