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Moi Moi in Banana Leaves

How to Make Nigerian Moi Moi

Florence Akpotaire
This recipe is a step-by-step guide for making Nigerian Moi Moi.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Nigerian
Servings 4 People

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Moi Moi containers (ramekins, foil wraps, or banana leaves)
  • Steaming pot with a rack or foil base

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peeled beans black-eyed peas or brown beans
  • 1 medium onion roughly chopped
  • 1 large red bell pepper deseeded and chopped
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper optional, for heat
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 seasoning cubes
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 boiled eggs or flaked fish optional, for protein
  • Water (as needed to blend and steam)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Beans: If you’re using unpeeled beans, soak them in water for 30 minutes, then rub them between your palms to remove the skins. Rinse thoroughly to remove any chaff or leftover skins.
    Soaked Beans for Moi Moi
  • Blend the Mixture: In a blender, combine the peeled beans, onions, red bell pepper, Scotch bonnet (if using), and a bit of water. Blend until smooth and creamy. You’re aiming for a batter-like consistency, so avoid adding too much water.
    Ground Beans
  • Mix the Batter: Pour the blended mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the vegetable oil, ground pepper, seasoning cubes, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
    Adding Spice for Moi Moi
  • Add Optional Proteins: If you’re using boiled eggs, slice them into halves. If you prefer fish, flake it into small pieces. Fold these into the batter or place them into the containers before adding the batter.
    Hard-boiled Eggs
  • Prepare for Steaming: Pour the batter into your Moi Moi containers, ramekins, or wrap them securely in banana leaves. Ensure the containers are sealed to prevent water from entering during steaming.
    Adding Moi Moi to Cups
  • Steam the Moi Moi: Arrange the containers in a steaming pot. Add water to the base of the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the Moi Moi. Cover the pot and steam over medium heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check periodically and add more water if needed.
    Boiling Moi Moi
  • Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the Moi Moi. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
    Moi Moi in Banana Leaves

Notes

If baking with ramekins in an air fryer, Steps 1-5 are the same as above.
  • Grease ramekins containers.
  • Scoop the Moi Moi into each container. Leave some space to allow it rise.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Keyword Making Moi Moi, Nigerian Moi Moi, Steamed Bean Pudding, Steamed Moi Moi
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