Authentic Congolese Nkumu-Nsusu: A Traditional Spinach and Peanut Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kg chicken pieces
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons palm oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked dried shrimp (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup okra, chopped
  • 1 large eggplant, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by heating the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes, cayenne pepper, white pepper, and salt to the pot and stir well.
  5. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  6. Add the chopped spinach, bell pepper, eggplant, and okra to the pot.
  7. If you're using smoked dried shrimp, add it at this point.
  8. Add the water and stir everything together.
  9. Cover the pot once more and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes.
  10. Stir the stew occasionally and add more water if needed.
  11. The Nkumu-Nsusu is ready when the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened to your liking.
  12. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
  13. Serve the Nkumu-Nsusu hot with your favourite side dish like rice or fufu.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A large pot will be needed to cook the stew.
  • Knife and cutting board - These tools will be used to chop the vegetables and prepare the ingredients.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - This utensil will be used for stirring the stew while it simmers.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups will be required to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Grater - The grater will be needed to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Can opener - If using canned tomatoes, a can opener will be necessary to open the can.
  • Cooking spoon - A cooking spoon will be used to mix and stir the ingredients in the pot.
  • Cover or lid - A lid or cover will be used to cover the pot while the stew simmers.
  • Plates and utensils - Plates and utensils will be needed for serving and eating the Nkumu-Nsusu.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute chicken with beef or lamb for a different meat option.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or tofu.
  • Add some heat by including chopped chili peppers or hot sauce.
  • For a richer flavor, use coconut milk instead of water.
  • Add some depth by including a tablespoon of tomato paste.
  • Include other leafy greens like kale or collard greens instead of spinach.
  • Experiment with different spices such as paprika, turmeric, or curry powder.
  • For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or smoked salt.
  • Include other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for a citrusy twist.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our detailed recipe for Nkumu-Nsusu, a popular and hearty chicken and vegetable stew from the heart of Central Africa. This dish is not only packed with flavorful spices and tender chicken, but it also incorporates a variety of nutritious vegetables like spinach, okra, eggplant, and bell peppers. The unique aspect of this recipe is the use of palm oil and optional smoked dried shrimp, which adds a distinct, rich flavor profile to the stew. Making Nkumu-Nsusu involves sautéing, simmering, and a bit of patience to bring out all the fantastic flavors. While it may take some time, the resulting stew is well worth the wait. With a spicy kick from cayenne pepper and a hearty mix of vegetables, Nkumu-Nsusu can be enjoyed as a main course served hot over rice or fufu. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available, making this dish a wonderful introduction to Central African cuisine. Get ready to embark on a flavorful culinary journey with this Nkumu-Nsusu recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless chicken instead of chicken pieces? Yes, you can use boneless chicken in this recipe. However, chicken pieces with bones will add more flavor to the stew.
  2. Can I substitute palm oil with another type of oil? Palm oil is a key ingredient in Nkumu-Nsusu and provides a distinct flavor. It is recommended to use palm oil for an authentic taste. However, if you cannot find palm oil, you can use a neutral cooking oil as a substitute.
  3. Is it necessary to add smoked dried shrimp? No, smoked dried shrimp is an optional ingredient. It adds a unique flavor to the stew, but you can omit it if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions.
  4. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper used. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.
  5. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Fresh spinach is recommended for this recipe as it provides a vibrant taste and texture. However, if fresh spinach is not available, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute.
  6. What can I serve with Nkumu-Nsusu? Nkumu-Nsusu is traditionally served with rice or fufu, which is a staple food made from cassava, plantains, or yams. You can also enjoy it with bread or any other side dish of your choice.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot will be needed to cook the stew and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will be necessary for chopping the vegetables and preparing the ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife will be needed for cutting the chicken, chopping the vegetables, and mincing garlic.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is recommended for stirring the stew while it simmers.
  • Measuring cups - You'll need measuring cups for accurately measuring the ingredients like spinach and water.
  • Grater - A grater will be necessary for grating the fresh ginger.
  • Serving dishes - Prepare serving dishes or plates for serving the Nkumu-Nsusu.
  • Side dish utensils - Have appropriate utensils ready for serving the Nkumu-Nsusu with your choice of side dish, such as rice or fufu.

Origin stories

Nkumu-Nsusu hails from the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, a place with a rich culinary tradition that draws heavily from the nation's abundant natural resources. This stew is a testament to the Congo's fertile soils, brimming with a variety of vegetables like spinach, okra, and eggplant. It's not unusual for families to have their own versions of Nkumu-Nsusu, each adapted according to personal tastes and available ingredients. The use of palm oil and smoked dried shrimp, while not mandatory, reflects the Congo's coastal influences, adding a distinct layer of flavor that sets this stew apart. It's a celebration of the Congo's biodiversity and a demonstration of how ingredients available locally can come together to create something truly delicious. So, every spoonful of Nkumu-Nsusu is more than just a meal, it's a taste of the Congo's rich and diverse culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.