How to Make Delicious Nigerian Plantain Porridge (Easy Recipe!)

Nigerian Plantain Porridge is a mouthwatering, nutrient-rich dish that combines ripe or unripe plantains with vegetables, proteins, and spices to create a hearty meal. This dish is loved across Nigeria for its balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or a special treat, plantain porridge is a must-try!

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect Nigerian Plantain Porridge, including ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and expert tips for the best results.

Why You Should Try Nigerian Plantain Porridge

1. Nutritious and Healthy – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and essential nutrients.
2. Quick and Easy – Perfect for a hassle-free meal in under 45 minutes.
3. Budget-Friendly – Made with affordable ingredients available in most local markets.
4. Versatile – Can be customized with your choice of proteins and vegetables.

Ingredients for Nigerian Plantain Porridge

Here’s what you need to make a delicious bowl of plantain porridge:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 medium unripe or semi-ripe plantains (peeled and diced)
• 1 cup of chopped pumpkin leaves (ugu) or spinach
• 1 cup of palm oil
• 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
• 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground crayfish
• 2 cups of water or stock (chicken or beef)
• 1 tablespoon ground dried shrimp (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon seasoning cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• 1 smoked fish (deboned and shredded)

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup diced yam or sweet potatoes (for extra bulk)
• ½ cup of chopped bell peppers (for added flavor and color)
• 1 cup of protein (beef, chicken, or prawns)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Nigerian Plantain Porridge

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Peel and dice the plantains into small cubes.
• Rinse the smoked fish and remove any bones.
• Chop the vegetables and onions.
• Blend or finely chop the scotch bonnet peppers.

Step 2: Cook the Base

• In a medium-sized pot, heat the palm oil for about 2 minutes on low heat.
• Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
• Stir in the scotch bonnet peppers and ground crayfish, then cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Plantains and Liquid

• Add the diced plantains to the pot.
• Pour in 2 cups of water or stock and stir gently.
• Add the seasoning cubes, dried shrimp, and salt to taste.
• Cover and allow to cook for about 15-20 minutes on medium heat.

Step 4: Add Protein and Vegetables

• Stir in the smoked fish, beef, or prawns if using.
• Add the chopped pumpkin leaves or spinach.
• Simmer for another 5 minutes until the plantains are soft and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serve

• Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Allow the porridge to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Nigerian Plantain Porridge

• Use a mix of unripe and semi-ripe plantains – This provides a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors.
• Don’t skip the crayfish – It enhances the authentic Nigerian taste.
• Control the palm oil quantity – Too much can make the dish overly oily, while too little may reduce the richness.
• Experiment with proteins – Adding prawns, chicken, or even mushrooms gives extra depth to the dish.