Bowa - Dry Mushroom in Pounded Groundnut Sauce

Ingredients

• 3 Cups of Dry Mushroom
• 1 Medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 Medium Tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 Cups Pounded Groundnuts
• Water for soaking
• Salt to taste

Preparation

1. Soak the Mushrooms: Soak the dry mushrooms in hot water for 10 minutes, then rinse. Let the mushrooms soak overnight to soften them.
2. Rinse Thoroughly: In the morning, rinse the mushrooms thoroughly to remove any sand or debris, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Boil the Mushrooms: In a medium pot, add the mushrooms and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook until they are soft.
4. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped tomatoes and onions to the pot and stir. Let them cook together until the vegetables soften.
5. Incorporate Groundnuts: Gradually stir in the pounded groundnuts while reducing the heat to a simmer. Continue stirring occasionally to ensure the groundnuts blend smoothly into the mixture.
6. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens and the groundnuts change color, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cooking Time

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including soaking and simmering)
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour

Serving Suggestions

Bowa is best served as a relish alongside nshima or any protein-based dish. The rich, earthy flavor of the mushrooms combined with the creamy groundnut sauce makes for a perfect accompaniment to a traditional African meal.

Chef’s Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or garlic to the mix while cooking. Roasting the groundnuts before adding them to the pot can also enhance the richness of the dish.

Try out this delicious Bowa recipe today and explore our range of authentic African foods, available now at Mamasown Market!