Authentic Turkish Nema Recipe: A Sweet Delight from the Ottoman Empire

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of Nema leaves
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 2 cups of vegetable broth
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the Nema leaves thoroughly and chop them roughly.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute.
  5. Add the chopped Nema leaves to the pot and stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
  6. Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  8. Stir in the coconut milk, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  9. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat for another 10 minutes.
  10. Turn off the heat and add the lemon juice, stirring well to combine.
  11. Let the Nema sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - For chopping the Nema leaves and other ingredients.
  • Knife - To cut the Nema leaves and chop the onion and garlic.
  • Large pot - To cook the Nema leaves and other ingredients.
  • Spatula - To stir the ingredients while cooking.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the spices and lemon juice.
  • Lemon squeezer - To extract the juice from the lemon.

Recipe variations

  • Replace Nema leaves with spinach or kale for a different flavor.
  • Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a more tomato-based sauce.
  • Include chopped carrots, bell peppers, or other vegetables for added texture and taste.
  • For a meaty option, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef to the dish.
  • Experiment with different spices like curry powder, chili flakes, or garam masala to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the coconut milk with almond milk or cashew cream.
  • Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy and nutty twist.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to enhance the presentation.
  • Serve over rice, quinoa, or noodles to make it a complete meal.
  • For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapenos or red chili peppers.

Recipe overview

This is a delightful recipe for a delicious and healthy dish made from Nema leaves. Nema, a leafy green vegetable, is the star of this recipe, accompanied by a flavorful blend of spices and a rich and creamy coconut milk base. The dish is both hearty and light, making it a perfect meal any time of the year. The recipe is fairly simple to prepare and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. With its blend of earthy flavors and refreshing citrus notes, this Nema dish is sure to impress both your family and guests.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen Nema leaves?
    Yes, you can use frozen Nema leaves for this recipe. Make sure to thaw them before chopping and using in the dish.
  2. Can I substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth?
    Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version of the recipe.
  3. Is there a substitute for coconut milk?
    If you don't have coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream or yogurt for a different flavor profile.
  4. Can I adjust the spices according to my taste?
    Yes, feel free to adjust the spices such as turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper according to your personal preference.
  5. How should I store the leftover Nema?
    Store the leftover Nema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  6. Can I add other vegetables or protein to this recipe?
    Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or proteins like tofu or chicken to make it a heartier dish.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy cutting surface for chopping the Nema leaves and other ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the Nema leaves, onions, and garlic.
  • Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate the Nema leaves and other ingredients.
  • Stirring spoon - A spoon or spatula for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the turmeric, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  • Lemon squeezer - Optional, but helpful for easily extracting juice from the lemon.

Origin stories

Nema is a unique dish that originates from the heart of Africa, specifically from the region of Angola. This country, rich in culinary culture, is blessed with an abundance of leafy greens, and among them, the Nema leaf is highly regarded for its nutritious benefits. An interesting piece of trivia about Nema is that it's not only a mainstay in many Angolan dishes, but it's also a prominent feature in local medicinal practices. Traditionally, the leaves have been used in concoctions to treat ailments like fever and stomach problems. In fact, the name 'Nema' is believed to be derived from a local phrase which translates to ‘the healer’. It's incredible to think that this humble leafy green is not just a source of sustenance, but also a symbol of health and wellness in the Angolan community. Indeed, every mouthful of a Nema dish is a taste of this rich cultural 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.