Description
This vibrant Ghanaian Spinach Stew is a quick and spicy vegan recipe bursting with fresh vegetables and bold flavors. Combining sautéed garlic, ginger, onions, habanero chilies, and smoked paprika with plum tomatoes and fresh spinach, it delivers a hearty, nutritious, and comforting meal perfect for pairing with rice or baked plantains. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to enjoy West African cuisine at home with a deliciously smoky and spicy twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients
- 4 cups Fresh Spinach (can substitute with frozen spinach)
- 3 cups Plum Tomatoes (canned tomatoes can be used for convenience)
- 2 whole Habanero Chillies (substitute with Scotch bonnet or red bell peppers for milder heat)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated)
- 1 medium Onion (sliced)
Pantry and Spices
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Drizzle of Cooking Oil (such as vegetable or palm oil)
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: In a large pan, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onions, and chopped habanero chilies. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions turn translucent, releasing their flavors.
- Cook Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor, allowing it to caramelize slightly before adding the rest of the ingredients.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Mix in the smoked paprika along with the chopped plum tomatoes and their juices. Season with salt to taste. Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add Spinach: Roughly chop the fresh spinach and stir it into the thickened tomato sauce. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and brightens, infusing the stew with its earthy freshness.
- Serve Warm: Serve this spicy Ghanaian Spinach Stew warm, ideally with steamed rice or baked plantains, for a satisfying and wholesome meal that highlights authentic West African flavors.
Notes
- For a milder version, substitute habanero chillies with red bell peppers or remove seeds from chili peppers before cooking.
- Using canned plum tomatoes is a convenient option without compromising flavor.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach if fresh is unavailable; just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
- Adjust salt and spice levels according to personal preference.
- This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, baked plantains, or any preferred grain.
