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.
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
- In a large pot, sauté the onions until translucent.
- Add the bitter melon, tomatoes, pumpkin, and okra to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the scotch bonnet pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the peanut butter and spinach. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- 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