As I reminisced on my encounter with one of the greatest novelists Africa has ever produced while taking a tour through one of his classics, “Things Fall Apart”, I couldn’t help but muse on the portrayal of a food feast that had a gigantic-sized fufu on the menu, and those who sat to enjoy the food could only exchange pleasantries after the fufu had been levelled given its enormous size. The Ibos are known for their warm communal gatherings and hearty display of cultural identity, which is prevalent in their attire, festivals, and food. Their unique blend of flavours evokes an irresistible appeal that is predominant in each food they prepare, and one such food is “Bitter Leaf Rice.”
Bitter Leaf rice, as the name implies, is a delicacy made with rice and bitter leaf, a plant botanically known as Vernonia Amygdalina. This food is mainly popular among the Ibo people of Nigeria, especially in states such as Imo, Anambra, Abia, Enugu, and Ebonyi. Preparing the food is an art and not just about cooking because this cultural heritage has waltzed through generations, embodying the legacy and traditions of the Ibo culture.
Famous for its distinctive flavours and impressive health benefits, bitterleaf incorporates essential vitamins into any food prepared with it. Its leafy green stems contain vitamins A, C, and E and other essential minerals such as iron and calcium.
So, if you want to enjoy healthy cooked food, bitterleaf rice is a must-try. If you don’t know how to prepare it, this article has the perfect recipe for you! Here’s a simple yet delightful recipe to bring a taste of Nigeria into your kitchen.
Are you ready? They grab your apron and let us whip up some finger-licking delicacy!
How to Prepare Bitter Leaf Rice
Preparing the perfect bitter leaf rice requires a careful balance of ingredients and flavours. Before we delve into the preparation of bitter leaf rice, let’s look at the ingredients needed to cook it.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of rice
- 4-5 leaves of freshly chopped bitter leaf
- 1 cup of palm oil or vegetable oil
- One medium onion
- Two cloves of finely chopped garlic
- One teaspoon of ground crayfish
- 3-4 sized freshly ground pepper bell pepper
- 2-3 seasoning cubes to taste
- 1 smoked fish or dried fish/meat
- 4-5 sized newly chopped tomatoes (recommended)
- Salt to taste
- Fish or meat stock
Instructions
- Prepare the Bitterleaf
If you’re using fresh bitter leaf, which is preferable, wash it thoroughly to reduce its bitterness. Several rinses are required to get rid of the bitter taste.
- Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Then, cook the rice with water until it is about 70% done.
- Drain any excess water from the rice and set aside.
- Prepare the Ingredients
Steam the meat or debone the fish to be utilised and set aside. Heat the palm oil or vegetable oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Add the freshly chopped tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes appear well-fried.
Add the seasoning cubes and the ground crayfish. The ground pepper should accompany this. Stir well to enhance an even distribution. Then, lastly, add the magic touch, which is the bitter leaf.
Stir in the chopped bitter leaf and cook for a few minutes to blend the flavours. Then, add the partially cooked rice to the pot and mix well with the bitter leaf. Uplift the food with the smoked or dried fish by breaking it into smaller pieces. Give the entire mixture a gentle stir. Add one or two cups of water or fish stock to prevent sticking, and allow the rice to cook thoroughly.
Stir well, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and allow to simmer and cook appropriately until it is thoroughly done and all the flavours have blended. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add a bit more water if necessary. Taste the rice intermittently and add a dash of salt or other additional seasoning ingredients as required. Once the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavours of the bitterleaf, turn off your cooker, and your bitter leaf rice will be ready to be served!
Serve hot and enjoy your bitter leaf rice as a main dish or alongside your favourite Nigerian stews or sauced meats.
Bitterleaf rice is more than just a meal; it is a gastronomic journey into the heart of Nigerian culture. Each bite is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Igbo people, who have transformed a bitter plant into a beloved ingredient. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or someone looking to connect with Nigerian heritage, bitterleaf rice is a dish that promises to delight and satisfy.
So, why leap and try making bitter leaf rice in your kitchen? Experience Nigeria’s rich flavours and vibrant culture, one delicious spoonful at a time.