CUCUMBER STEW: A BUDGET-FRIENDLY TWIST ON TRADITIONAL FOOD

By Victoria Ojolowo

 

 

       Photo credit: myboss kitchen

Amid economic challenges, especially for students, meal planning on a tight budget can be an added stressor. While tomatoes remain an essential ingredient for stew, their skyrocketing prices have forced Nigerians to seek alternatives. Break into cucumber stew—a surprisingly healthy and cost-effective solution to the tomato dilemma.

Cucumbers, often overlooked in traditional Nigerian cuisine, provide a similar texture and consistency to tomatoes when blended. They're not just a substitute; they offer nutritional benefits such as higher levels of Vitamin C and K, ensuring a rich and healthy meal without breaking the bank.

 

Preparation

Preparing cucumber stew is straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:

- Cucumbers

- Blended Scotch bonnet pepper

- Onions

- Tomato paste (optional)

- Ginger and garlic paste (optional)

 

Instructions

 

1. Preparation:

   - Peel the cucumbers, removing any bitter seeds.

   - Blend the peeled cucumbers with a bit of water for smoothness.

   - Strain out excess water from the blended cucumber.

 

2. Cooking:

   - Heat vegetable oil in a pan and sauté diced onions until golden.

   - Add ginger, garlic, and tomato paste (if using), frying until fragrant.

   - Mix blended Scotch bonnet pepper and stir.

   - Add the strained cucumber mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes.

   - Season with spices and salt to taste. For added protein, include your choice of meat or fish.

   - Simmer for approximately 10 minutes until flavours melt together.

 

Serving

Pair your cucumber stew with rice, bread, or spaghetti for a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. It’s a refreshing twist on a traditional dish that proves economical and delicious—a true win-win for the budget-conscious palate.

Enjoy the flavours of cucumber stew as a wholesome alternative amidst rising food costs. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary innovation born out of necessity and embraced for its simplicity and health benefits.