What are cowpeas, what is bitter leaf? 

Cowpeas originated in Africa. The cowpea is also commonly referred to as black-eyed pea however; the bean is a variety of the cowpea. Cowpeas are an important staple crop in sub-Saharan Africa. Cowpeas are a valuable source of vegetable protein, vitamins as well as valuable income. 

Bitterleaf is a widely used cooking vegetable throughout Africa. Bitter leaf has a strong odor and a bitter taste. Yoruba people call bitter leaf Ewuro and the Igbo tribe Onugbu. The bitter leaf grows in a large range of biological zones in Africa, produces many leaves, and is drought tolerant. Here is an easy recipe for Spicy Vegetarian Cowpeas and Bitter Leaf Stew.

Spicy Vegetarian Cowpeas and Bitter Leaf Stew

Spicy Vegetarian Cowpeas and Bitter Leaf Stew Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups dry cowpeas or black-eyed peas

2 scallions, chopped

3 handfuls of chopped bitter leaf

1 potato, chopped into large chunks

3 cloves whole garlic

1 red chili pepper

5 cups water

Dash salt

Directions

Place all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Serve with soft bread.

What are gizzards?
A gizzard is a stomach like organ that birds use to grind their food before they digest it. Gizzards are a good source of protein, high in iron and zinc but are high in fat and cholesterol.

Classic way to prepare gizzards in Africa.

Stewed Gizzards Nigerian Gizdo Recipe Nutrition Facts
Calories 620
Fat 25g
Saturated Fat 3.5g
Sodium 1630g
Protein 41g

Nigerian Gizdo Recipe

African Recipes by African Gourmet 

Dodo gizzards or Gizdo is a popular Nigerian stew made with a delicious combination of gizzards and fried plantains. 

 Prep time: 20 min Cook time: 45 min Total time: 1 hour 5 min

Ingredients

1 pound chopped chicken gizzards

2 yellow plantains, diced

1 white onion, chopped

1 bunch green spring onions, chopped

2 large red tomatoes, diced

1 green bell pepper, seeds removed and chopped

1 red bell pepper, seeds removed and chopped

1 hot pepper, chopped

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon salt or to taste

2 cups chicken broth or water

1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

In a large stewing pot add oil and sear plantains, add remaining ingredients and simmer 45 minutes. Serve over rice.

Culture and food of Africa would not be complete without including the iconic African street food recipe of Lokma Fried Sweet Dough. Lokma is a fried sweet dough that is covered in syrup. Served as a dessert, lokma is a popular coffee accompaniment.

How to Make Lokma Fried Sweet Dough Recipe

Every region of Africa makes some form of fried sweet dough pastries.

Cost about $1 per serving

Takes about 2 hours

Serves around 10 people

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup warm water

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon active dry yeast

2 cups all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons

1 teaspoon salt

Vegetable oil for frying

For The Syrup

3 cups of sugar

1 1/3 cups water

2 tablespoons lemon juice

Recipe Directions

Preheat vegetable oil. In a measuring cup, add yeast and sugar to warm water. Stir until dissolved. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast water and stir with an oiled wooden spoon until a dough-like consistency form. Cover and place in a warm area and allow to rise for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled. Spoon dough by the tablespoon into vegetable oil and allow to cook for about 2 minutes each side, until each side is a golden brown color. Repeat with remaining dough. Drain on paper towels.

[Read Next: African Street Food Fresh Grilled Gingered Corn]

For the syrup

About 20 minutes prior to frying the dough, make the syrup. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan until sugar is dissolved on medium heat. Bring to a boil, then allow to simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes, until it becomes a syrup consistency. Do not stir frequently because the sugar will make the syrup cloudy. Drizzle syrup over the fried dough and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Lokma Fried Sweet Dough Recipe and fall in love with African Food at first bite. Lokma Fried Sweet Dough Recipe is a simple deep-fried sweet dough recipe for you to make for your family or friends.

[Read Next: Learn how to make the popular African street food samosa at home]