Nigerian · Breakfast · Lunch · Snacks
Steamed bean pudding with peppers and savoury seasoning.
WHAT YOU NEED
Ingredients adjusted for 8 servings
Read the complete method first. Measure all ingredients for Moi Moi, prepare the listed equipment, and separate raw-food tools from ready-to-eat food.
STEP BY STEP
Soak 2 cups peeled beans for 10–15 minutes, rinse well and check that most skins have been removed. Blend the beans in batches with 2 red peppers, 1 onion and enough stock or water to make a smooth thick batter.
Pour the batter into a large bowl. Whisk in 1/4 cup oil, salt and seasoning for 2–3 minutes to incorporate air. The mixture should pour slowly; add stock one tablespoon at a time if it is too stiff.
Lightly oil heatproof ramekins or foil containers. If using boiled eggs, cut them into pieces and place one portion in each container before filling no more than three-quarters full.
Arrange the containers in a wide pot lined with a rack or folded cloth. Add hot water to reach halfway up the containers, cover each container and then cover the pot tightly.
Steam over medium-low heat for 40–55 minutes, checking occasionally that the pot has not boiled dry. Add only hot water if needed so steaming does not stop.
Insert a skewer into the centre; it should emerge clean and the moi moi should feel firm and springy. Rest for 10 minutes before unmoulding because the centres continue setting as they cool.
Nutrition varies with portions and ingredient brands.
If food browns too quickly, lower the heat. If it is pale or watery, cook in smaller batches and allow excess moisture to evaporate before adding more ingredients.
Serve Moi Moi at the temperature recommended in the method. Taste for seasoning only when the food is safe to sample, then add garnishes just before serving.
Cool leftovers promptly, transfer them to a clean airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours. Reheat only the portion needed until piping hot, and follow local food-safety guidance.
WHAT I LEARNED
Steam cooks food gently using moist heat.
SAFETY FIRST
Use heat-safe containers and let an adult lift the steaming lid.
