Nigerian Beans and Yam Porridge Recipe (Delicious, Nutritious & Easy to Cook)

 

If you’re looking for a delicious and filling Nigerian recipe, this beans and yam porridge will become a family favorite. Made with black-eyed peas, yam, ripe plantains, and beef, this dish is protein-rich, healthy, and perfect for both kids and adults.

Beans porridge (sometimes called ewa riro with yam) is a classic in many Nigerian homes because it’s affordable, hearty, and full of flavor. This version combines creamy beans with chunks of yam and sweet ripe plantain, making it both savory and slightly sweet — a balanced, nourishing meal.

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Ingredients for Nigerian Beans and Yam Porridge

• 2 cups black-eyed peas (beans)

• 2 slices of yam (medium size)

• 1 ripe plantain (peeled and chopped)

• ¼ kilo beef, chopped

• 1 onion (large)

• 1 large bell pepper

• 1–2 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste)

• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish or prawns

• 2 bouillon cubes

• Salt (to taste)

• 3–4 tablespoons red palm oil

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the beans

   • Pick and wash the beans thoroughly to remove dirt or stones.

   • Place in a pot with water and boil for 10 minutes. Drain and wash again (this helps remove chemical preservatives).

   • Return beans to the pot, add fresh water, and cook on high heat until soft. (Alternatively, use a pressure pot for faster cooking.)

2. Prepare the beef

   • In a separate pot, wash and season the beef with sliced onion, bouillon cubes, and salt.

   • Steam on low heat for 5 minutes, then add 1 cup of water. Cook on medium heat until tender.

3. Blend the pepper mix

   • Blend the scotch bonnet, bell pepper, onion, and crayfish into a smooth paste. Set aside.

4. Add yam and plantain

   • Once the beans are soft, add yam slices and cook for 10–15 minutes.

   • Add the chopped ripe plantain next.

5. Season and combine

   • Add salt, bouillon cubes, and the blended pepper mix.

   • Stir in red palm oil.

   • Finally, add the cooked beef and meat stock.

6. Cook until porridge consistency

   • Cover the pot and let everything cook together for 25–30 minutes on medium heat.

   • Stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom.

7. Serve and enjoy

   • Your beans and yam porridge should be thick, creamy, and richly flavored. Serve hot with chilled water or fresh juice.

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Tips for the Best Nigerian Beans Porridge

• Use ripe plantain for a natural sweetness that balances the spice.

• You can swap beef for fish, goat meat, or smoked turkey.

• Add spinach or ugu (pumpkin leaves) at the end for extra nutrients.

• If you prefer it lighter, reduce the yam quantity and add more beans.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I cook beans porridge without yam?
Yes, you can replace yam with more plantain or potatoes for a similar effect.

2. What type of beans is best for this recipe?
Black-eyed peas are the most common, but honey beans (oloyin) add natural sweetness.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the beef and crayfish, and use mushrooms or smoked tofu for protein.