Namibian-style Fave e Cicoria

Ingredients

In the Namibian adaptation of Fave e Cicoria, the traditional Italian ingredients are replaced with local Namibian ingredients. The original recipe calls for fava beans and Italian greens, while the Namibian version uses locally available beans and greens, such as kidney beans and spinach. The spices are also adjusted to incorporate Namibian flavors, with the addition of coriander and chili powder. These changes give the dish a distinct Namibian twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Italian recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Fave e cicoria, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) kidney beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped 1 bunch spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 6g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 16g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked kidney beans.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes, ground coriander, and chili powder to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Add the soaked kidney beans to the pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve hot with maize porridge or crusty bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Kidney beans — Make sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier stew, increase the amount of chili powder according to your taste.
• For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked beans before adding the spinach.

Serving advice

Serve Namibian-style Fave e Cicoria hot in bowls, accompanied by a portion of maize porridge or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top of the stew and sprinkle some chili flakes for a pop of color. Serve with a side of freshly baked bread rolls.