Plasas (bitter Melon Stew)

Plasas is a traditional Gambian stew made with bitter melon and a variety of other flavorful ingredients. This hearty and nutritious dish is a staple in Gambian cuisine, known for its unique combination of flavors and textures.

Plasas (bitter Melon Stew)

Ingredients

  • 2 medium bitter melons, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cup pumpkin, cubed
  • 1 cup okra, sliced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper, whole
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onions until translucent.
  2. Add the bitter melon, tomatoes, pumpkin, and okra to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the scotch bonnet pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
  4. Stir in the peanut butter and spinach. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
15g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Knife Cutting board Stirring spoon

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Plasas is traditionally served with rice or couscous.

Tips & tricks

For a spicier stew, you can chop the scotch bonnet pepper and add it to the pot instead of leaving it whole.

Cost

$10