Authentic Nigerian Gizdodo Recipe: A Flavor-packed Dish of Gizzard and Plantain

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe plantains
  • 1/2 kilogram of chicken gizzards
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 3 tomatoes
  • 1 large onion
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of curry
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cooking spoon of vegetable oil
  • 2 cubes of chicken bouillon

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by rinsing the chicken gizzards thoroughly, then place them in a pot.
  2. Add a pinch of salt, curry, thyme, and one crushed bouillon cube to the pot.
  3. Add some water, just enough to cook the gizzards, then place the pot on medium heat and let it cook until the gizzards are tender.
  4. While the gizzards are cooking, peel the plantains and cut them into small cubes.
  5. Heat up the vegetable oil in a frying pan and fry the plantain cubes until they are golden brown, then set them aside on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.
  6. Chop the red and green bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), and garlic.
  7. Once the gizzards are cooked, drain the stock and save it for later. Then, cut the gizzards into smaller pieces.
  8. In the same oil used for frying the plantains, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent.
  9. Add the chopped tomatoes and peppers to the pan and stir. Let it cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
  10. Add the chopped gizzards to the pan, stir and let it cook for a few more minutes.
  11. Next, add the fried plantains and the remaining bouillon cube. Stir everything together.
  12. Gradually add the saved gizzard stock while stirring, just enough to moisten the mixture. Let it simmer for a few more minutes.
  13. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Your Gizdodo is ready to be served.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of chicken gizzards, you can use chicken liver or a combination of gizzards and liver.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken gizzards with mushrooms or tofu.
  • Add some diced ripe plantains alongside the fried plantain cubes for added sweetness and texture.
  • Include some chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans to make it a more colorful and nutritious dish.
  • For a spicier version, increase the quantity of Scotch bonnet pepper or add some hot pepper sauce.
  • For a smoky flavor, you can grill or roast the bell peppers before adding them to the dish.
  • Add some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutritious twist.
  • Experiment with different spices like paprika, cumin, or ginger to add more depth of flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for added freshness.
  • Serve the Gizdodo with a side of rice, yam, or plantain chips for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

Gizdodo is a popular Nigerian dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned chicken gizzards and ripe plantains with a vibrant mix of bell peppers and tomatoes. The result is a deliciously spicy and savory treat that's perfect as a side dish, main course, or as a stand-alone snack. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing Gizdodo in simple, easy-to-follow steps. You can expect to do a bit of chopping, frying, and sautéing, but the mouth-watering end result is definitely worth the effort. Whether you're a fan of Nigerian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Gizdodo is an exquisite dish that's sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use ripe or unripe plantains? You should use ripe plantains for this recipe as they will add a sweet flavor and soft texture.
  2. Do I have to use chicken gizzards? Chicken gizzards are traditionally used in Gizdodo, but if you prefer, you can substitute them with chicken liver or even boneless chicken pieces.
  3. How spicy is this dish? The spiciness of Gizdodo can be adjusted to your preference. If you want it spicier, you can include the optional Scotch bonnet pepper. Otherwise, it will have a mild to moderate spice level.
  4. Can I use other types of peppers? Yes, you can use different types of peppers based on your preference. You can substitute the bell peppers with chili peppers or any other peppers you like.
  5. Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the gizzards and the fried plantains in advance. When you're ready to serve, you can quickly sauté the vegetables and combine everything together.
  6. What can I serve Gizdodo with? Gizdodo is often served as a main dish or as a side dish with rice, fried yam, or even bread. It pairs well with other Nigerian dishes too.
  7. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of Gizdodo in an airtight container. Just make sure to thaw and reheat it properly before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to chop vegetables and fruits.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is essential for cutting the ingredients.
  • Pot - Use a pot to cook the chicken gizzards.
  • Frying pan - Use a frying pan to fry the plantains.
  • Paper towel - Place the fried plantains on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  • Spatula - Use a spatula to stir and flip the ingredients while cooking.
  • Cooking spoon - Use a cooking spoon to stir the Gizdodo while it simmers.

Origin stories

Gizdodo, a flavorful fusion of gizzards, plantains, and a colorful palette of vegetables, is a beloved dish in Nigeria. It has its roots in the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Lagos. Originally, this dish was prepared as a way to creatively utilize leftovers, in particular chicken gizzards. The addition of ripe plantains, a common staple in Nigerian households, added a delightful sweetness that balanced the savory gizzards. Over time, the dish grew in popularity and it can now be found at numerous social events and celebrations across the country. Gizdodo, like the city of its origin, represents a blending of tastes and influences, creating a harmonious and delicious whole.

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.