Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of cornmeal
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of roasted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 cup of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Blender or food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
- In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- In a bowl, mix the cornmeal with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of water until it forms a smooth paste.
- Slowly pour the cornmeal mixture into the boiling water while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Wet your hands with water and shape the cornmeal mixture into small balls or patties.
- In a blender or food processor, blend the roasted peanuts until they form a smooth paste.
- In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add the peanut paste and 1 cup of water, and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Akple with the peanut sauce on the side.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Medium heat for the saucepan
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cornmeal can be substituted with cassava flour or yam flour.
- Roasted peanuts can be substituted with peanut butter.
Variations:
- The peanut sauce can be spiced up with chili peppers or cayenne pepper.
- Akple can be served with other sauces such as tomato sauce or hot pepper sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Wetting your hands with water before shaping the Akple prevents it from sticking to your hands.
- Stirring constantly while cooking the Akple prevents it from burning or sticking to the pot.
Storage instructions:
- Akple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The peanut sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
- Akple can be reheated in the microwave or in a steamer.
- The peanut sauce can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Akple and peanut sauce on a platter with a garnish of chopped peanuts and fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Chopped peanuts
- Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Steamed vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Fried plantains
- Jollof rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the Akple is too dry, add a little water and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the peanut sauce is too thick, add more water and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the Akple thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
Food history:
- Akple is a traditional dish from Ghana, made from cornmeal or cassava flour.
Flavor profiles:
- Akple has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- The peanut sauce is savory and nutty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Akple and peanut sauce as a main course or as a snack.
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Region: Ghanaian