Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Local Rice with Spicy Green Pepper Sauce

Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Local Rice with Spicy Green Pepper Sauce

Introduction

Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce is a traditional Nigerian dish that combines the nutty and aromatic flavors of Ofada rice with the rich, spicy kick of Ayamase (Green Pepper Sauce). Ofada rice is a locally grown, unpolished rice known for its unique aroma and slightly sticky texture. Ayamase, also called Ofada Sauce or Designer Stew, is a vibrant green pepper sauce made with green bell peppers, green scotch bonnets, assorted meats, and rich palm oil. This dish is often served at Nigerian parties and special occasions, offering a hearty, spicy, and deeply satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Ofada Rice:

• 3 cups Ofada rice (local Nigerian brown rice)
• 6-8 cups water (for boiling)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (to reduce foaming)

For the Ayamase Sauce:

• 4 green bell peppers
• 6-8 green scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for spice tolerance)
• 1 medium onion (half for blending, half chopped)
• 1 cup palm oil
• 500g assorted meats (beef, tripe, cow skin, offals)
• 200g boiled eggs (optional)
• 1 cup locust beans (Iru)
• 1 tablespoon ground crayfish
• 2-3 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ofada Rice

1. Rinse and Parboil: Rinse the Ofada rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. Parboil for 10 minutes, then drain.
2. Cook the Rice: In a large pot, bring 6-8 cups of water to a boil. Add the parboiled rice, salt, and a splash of vegetable oil. Cook until the rice is tender but slightly chewy.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain any excess water and set the rice aside. Ofada rice can be served wrapped in traditional leaves for an authentic presentation.

Step 2: Prepare the Ayamase Sauce

1. Blend the Peppers:

• Combine green bell peppers, green scotch bonnets, and half an onion in a blender.
• Blend coarsely, avoiding a smooth puree to maintain a slightly chunky texture.
• Pour the blended peppers into a pot and boil until the excess water evaporates.

2. Cook the Assorted Meats:

• Wash and cut the assorted meats into bite-sized pieces.
• Season with salt, onions, and stock cubes. Boil until tender, then set aside.

3. Make the Ayamase Sauce:

1. Bleach the Palm Oil: In a large pot, heat the palm oil until it turns a lighter shade (about 5-10 minutes). Ensure to do this in a well-ventilated area and cover the pot to avoid smoke.
2. Fry Onions and Iru: Add the chopped onions and locust beans to the hot oil. Fry until the onions are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Blended Pepper Mix: Pour in the boiled green pepper mixture and stir well.
4. Season and Cook: Add ground crayfish, stock cubes, ground pepper, and salt. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the oil floats to the top.
5. Incorporate the Meats and Eggs: Add the cooked meats and boiled eggs to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and flavorful.

Step 3: Final Touches and Serving

1. Check Seasoning: Taste the Ayamase sauce and adjust salt and spices if necessary.
2. Serve Hot: Scoop the Ofada rice onto a plate or serve traditionally in leaves. Top generously with the Ayamase sauce and a boiled egg.
3. Optional Sides: Pair with fried plantains or a fresh vegetable salad for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce pairs beautifully with:

• Fried Plantains (Dodo): Adds a sweet and savory contrast to the spicy sauce.
• Fresh Vegetable Salad: Helps balance the rich flavors of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter, healthier addition to the meal.

Tips for Making Perfect Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce

• Control the Spice Level: Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers to suit your heat tolerance.
• Bleaching Palm Oil: Always cover the pot and ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling smoke.
• Authentic Presentation: If possible, serve the Ofada rice in banana leaves for a traditional and aromatic experience.

Enjoy this rich and aromatic Nigerian dish, perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply indulging in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce bring the bold and authentic tastes of Nigeria right to your dining table!