Adalu means (Nigerian Beans and corn Porridge in Yoruba) is a sweet traditional Nigerian food, which you can be wrong with it’s called ”Ewa ati Agbado”(Yoruba) and ”Agwa na Oka”(Igbo).
popular among the Yoruba people, combine beans and corn into a nutritious, filling meal. This way, you get the best of both foods in a single meal.
Trust me, If you don’t like beans before, this recipe will make you fall in love with beans immediately.
Below is an easy Beans and Corn Porridge recipe.
Ingredients for Adalu/Beans and corn Porridge:
- 2 cups of dried beans (black-eyed peas or brown beans)
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn (you can as well use baked beans and also sweet corn for a unique twist), you get?
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup of palm oil (or your preferred vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoonful ground crayfish
- 1-2 scotch bonnets (or substitute with other hot peppers to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of ground crayfish (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Seasoning cubes (optional)
Little tips Before cooking Adalu:
– To reduce cooking time and reduce ”gases for cooking”, you can soak the beans overnight or for 3 hours. Rinse off and set aside.
If you are short of time, you can use a pressure cooker or even make use of Akaun(edible potash) or baking soda, to soften the beans as it boils)
– If you are using canned sweet corn, strain out the liquid, then rinse it that, (if you want to) pour it into a sieve, and set aside.
– If you are using fresh raw corn from the cob, remove from the cob,wash well and set aside
Instructions: How to Cook Adalu (Beans and Corn Porridge)
1. Prepare the Beans:
Rinse your dried beans thoroughly so as to remove any dirt or debris.
In a big pot, add the beans then cover them with water. Bring the beans to a boil for 10 minutes, then drain the water to remove the initial gas-producing compounds.
Refill the pot with fresh water, bring it to a boil, and cook until the beans are tender. This shouldnt take more than 45-60 minutes.
2. Cooking the Corn:
– If using fresh or frozen corn, you can boil it separately until soft. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
– For a unique variation, try baked beans and sweet corn. This brings a slight sweetness to the dish, which complements the richness of the beans.
3. Combine the Beans and Corn:
Once the beans are soft, add the cooked corn to the pot.
Stir well and let it cook together for another 10 minutes so that the flavors can combine.
Add Flavor:
– In a frying pan, heat up the palm oil until it turns a bright orange color.
– Add the chopped onion and scotch bonnets, sautéing until they become fragrant and soft.
– Pour the sautéed mixture into the pot with the beans and corn.
– Stir in the ground crayfish, salt, and seasoning cubes. Let everything simmer together for about 10-15 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve:
– Your Adalu (Beans and Corn Porridge) is finally ready to be served!
So Enjoy it warm, either on its own or paired with a slice of bread or fried plantains.
Nigerian Beans and Corn Benefits
Adalu is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. The combination of beans and corn provides a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Beans are well known for their heart-health benefits and their ability to stabilize blood sugar, while corn is rich in fiber, vitamin B, and antioxidants. Together, these ingredients make for a balanced meal that provides both energy and nourishment.
Let me tell you, if you don’t know Cooked sweet corn also increases the level of ferulic acid in our bodies system , that always helps us to prevent cancers. So Adalu has alot of health benefits.
How to Cook Beans and Corn in Yoruba Cuisine
In Yoruba culture, Adalu holds a special place as a comfort food that’s often enjoyed by families. The dish reflects the rich, earthy flavors characteristic of many Nigerian beans and corn recipes. Whether you’re using green beans and corn for a lighter version or sticking to traditional ingredients, Adalu is a very versatile dish that adapts well to many variations.
FAQs: Tips for Cooking Adalu
Can I use canned beans? Yes, you can substitute dried beans with baked beans if you’re short on time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since canned beans are already soft.
Can I add other vegetables? Adding green beans and corn can give a fresher twist to the dish, making it even more nutritious.
This classic Beans and Corn Recipe is easy to make and showcases the richness of Nigerian cuisine. The simplicity of Adalu makes it a perfect weeknight meal, while its rich flavor ensures it’s a dish you’ll come back to time and again.
