How to Make Moin Moin/Moi Moi
When you think of a traditional Nigerian meal, one that stands out is Moi Moi. It’s a dish made from beans, combined with onions, peppers, and various spices. It’s simple, yet delicious and surprisingly inexpensive. This meal can be served for lunch or dinner, and if you have leftovers, don’t worry – you can always reheat them in the morning and enjoy them as a side dish with pap or custard.
A Delicious Nigerian Dish
Moi Moi is more than just a dish; it’s a reflection of Nigerian culture. Made from peeled black-eyed peas, honey beans, or brown beans, the beans are blended with peppers and onions and then steamed. The addition of fish, crayfish, boiled eggs, or even beef liver adds to the texture and nutrition of this hearty dish. In Nigeria, it’s a favorite in many homes, known by different names like olele, or simply bean pudding. Traditionally, it’s steamed in a pot with leaves like Ewe Eran or banana leaves, though ramekins or baking pans are also suitable alternatives.
Getting the Perfect Texture
Making Moi Moi can be tricky if you don’t follow the right recipe. The goal is to achieve a soft, yet firm texture that isn’t too mushy. When done right, it holds its shape well and can be quite satisfying. My favorite part is adding extra protein like fish, crayfish, or boiled eggs. This gives it an even richer flavor, making it hard to resist. Sometimes, I even use smoked trout or swap it for other cooked fish, depending on what’s available. You can even make it vegan by skipping the animal protein altogether.
A Personal Twist
Growing up, my mom’s recipe was the one we followed religiously. She used to wrap the bean batter in leaves, like the Ewe Eran, and steam it in a pot of water. Those leaves, which are similar to banana leaves, always gave the Moi Moi a unique flavor. I still remember how the Nigerians loved the sweetness that came from the leaves. Although I don’t always have access to these specific leaves, I use a mix of banana leaves and ramekins to recreate that nostalgic flavor.
Perfect Pairings
If you’re wondering what goes well with Moi Moi, it pairs beautifully with Jollof Rice, custard, or even oatmeal. It’s versatile and works as both a main dish and a side.
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Necessary Ingredients
- 2 cups honey beans
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- Water as needed
- Salt to taste
- Fish bouillon (1-2 cubes)
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp)
Optional:
- 2/3 scotch bonnets (optional for extra heat)
- 5-6 eggs (optional, boiled and sliced)
- Filleted cod fish (100-150g, cooked and flaked)
- Oil spray (for greasing ramekins)
Step By Step Preparation
1.Preparing the Ingredients
To get started, you’ll need a bowl of beans. Begin by allowing the beans to soak in water for a few minutes. This softens them, making it easier to peel off the skin. Once the beans have softened, rub them gently between your palms to loosen the skins. You may need to rinse several times to remove all the peels. Don’t worry if a few unpeeled pieces remain; they won’t make a big difference in the final product.
While the beans are soaking, gather your other ingredients. Cut the bell peppers, scotch bonnets, onion, and ginger into smaller pieces and set them aside. These will be blended with the beans later to give the dish its rich flavor.
2.Cooking the Fish
Next, take your cod fish and season it with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Place the fish in a pot or pan and boil it for about 5-10 minutes. Once cooked, use a fork to break apart the fish into small pieces and set them aside for later.
3.Blending the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Strain the soaked beans and transfer them to a blender along with the bell peppers, onion, and ginger. Add a cup of water and blend until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency. You might need to add extra water in small increments to help the blender work more efficiently.
4.Preparing the Hot Water Bath
While the mixture is blending, prepare a hot water bath by heating up about 15 cups of water in a large pot. This water bath will help to steam the dish evenly during cooking.
5.Mixing the Bean Mixture
After blending, transfer the pureed mixture into a bowl. Using a spatula, begin mixing in some oil until everything is well combined. Now, add in the fish bouillon and season the mixture to your preferred taste. Finally, gently fold in the cod fish pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6.Prepping the Ramekins
Before cooking, prepare your ramekins by spraying them with oil spray. This prevents the mixture from sticking as it cooks. Use a deep-mouthed spoon to scoop the bean mixture into each ramekin, filling them to just above the halfway point. This leaves enough room for the egg you’ll add next and allows space for the mixture to rise during steaming.
7.Adding Eggs and Steaming
Break an egg into each portion, carefully placing it on top of the mixture. Once the eggs are in, cover the ramekins with aluminium foil. Place the ramekins into the hot water bath and cover the pot lid tightly. The dish will steam for about 45 minutes on medium heat.
8.Checking for Doneness
To check if the dish is ready, use the toothpick test by poking through the center of the mixture. If the toothpick comes out clean, the dish is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes to cook thoroughly.
9.Final Touches
Once the dish is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm, either in the ramekins or unmolded onto a plate for presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know that the Moi Moi is done?
You can tell Moi Moi is done by using the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the Moi Moi. If it comes out clean, the Moi Moi is ready. If it’s still sticky, let it steam for a few more minutes and check again.
What does “moi moi” mean?
Moi Moi is a traditional Nigerian steamed bean pudding made from blended beans, often mixed with bell peppers, onions, and other seasonings. It’s a staple dish enjoyed in many Nigerian households.
How long do I soak my beans before peeling?
You should soak your beans for about 3 to 5 minutes before peeling. This softens the beans and makes it easier to rub off the skin.
Is Nigerian Moi Moi healthy?
Yes, Nigerian Moi Moi is healthy! It is rich in protein from the beans and fish, low in fat (depending on the amount of oil used), and contains essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Can I make Moi Moi without peeling it?
It’s possible to make Moi Moi without peeling the beans, but the texture may not be as smooth. Peeling the beans gives the dish a finer, softer texture.
Can I use palm oil?
Yes, you can use palm oil instead of vegetable oil in Moi Moi for a richer flavor and traditional taste. Just be mindful that it will change the color of the dish to a more reddish hue.
Is Moi Moi protein or carbohydrate?
Moi Moi is primarily a protein-rich dish due to its main ingredient, beans, but it also contains some carbohydrates from the vegetables and other ingredients mixed in.
What can I use to mold my Moi Moi?
You can use ramekins, foil cups, banana leaves, or even heatproof containers like small bowls to mold your Moi Moi for steaming. Just make sure to oil them to prevent sticking.
Serving Moi Moi
Moi Moi is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion and your preference. Traditionally, it is served as a side dish alongside other meals like jollof rice, fried rice, or boiled yams, adding a rich, savory taste to complement the main course.
When serving, you can either present the Moi Moi in its molded form (such as ramekins or foil cups) or unmold it onto a plate. If cooked in banana leaves, it can be unwrapped directly on the serving plate, adding a touch of authenticity. Moi Moi is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be served at room temperature, making it suitable for large gatherings or family meals.
For a more protein-packed meal, you can add toppings such as boiled eggs, fish, or even corned beef. It also pairs well with a simple vegetable salad or pap (a Nigerian corn pudding) for breakfast or light dinner.
In some cases, Moi Moi is served as a complete meal due to its rich protein content from the beans and additional ingredients. It’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that can stand alone or accompany other traditional Nigerian favorites.