Plasas

Plasas
Sierra-Leone
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) assorted meat (such as beef, goat, or chicken), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup palm oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup groundnut paste (natural peanut butter)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 lb (450 g) chopped spinach or other leafy greens (such as kale or collard greens)
  • 1 cup ground crayfish or dried shrimp (optional)
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat

Season the meat pieces with salt and black pepper.

In a large pot, heat the palm oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Add the meat pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Add the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add Groundnut Paste and Spices

Stir in the groundnut paste, ground cayenne pepper (if using), and ground crayfish or dried shrimp (if using).

Return the browned meat to the pot.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the water or chicken broth and add the whole Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover and let the stew simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally.

Add Greens

Add the chopped spinach or other leafy greens to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Serve

Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.

Enjoy your meal!