Melon Sauce Recipe (Egusi Sauce)

Melon Sauce Recipe (Egusi Sauce)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups ground melon seeds (egusi)
• 1/2 cup palm oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1-2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 1-2 hot peppers, chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 cup spinach or bitter leaf, chopped
• 2 cups meat or fish stock (or water)
• 1 smoked fish or dried fish, flaked (optional)
• 1 pound assorted meats (e.g., beef, tripe, cow skin), precooked
• 1 teaspoon ground crayfish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried shrimp (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 bouillon cubes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ground locust beans (iru) (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• Chop the onion, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, hot peppers (if using), and spinach or bitter leaf. Set aside.

1. Mix Egusi Paste:

• In a bowl, mix the ground melon seeds (egusi) with a little water to form a thick paste. Set aside.

1. Heat the Oil:

• In a large pot, heat the palm oil or vegetable oil over medium heat.

1. Cook Aromatics:

• Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

1. Add Tomatoes and Peppers:

• Stir in the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, and optional hot peppers. Cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

1. Add Egusi Paste:

• Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the egusi paste to the pot. Stir continuously to prevent burning and allow the paste to cook for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes grainy and slightly browned.

1. Add Stock and Seasonings:

• Add the meat or fish stock (or water) to the pot, stirring well to combine. The consistency should be slightly thick but not too watery.
• Add the ground crayfish, dried shrimp (if using), ground pepper, salt, bouillon cubes, and ground locust beans. Stir well.

1. Add Meats and Fish:

• Add the precooked assorted meats and flaked smoked or dried fish to the pot. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

1. Add Vegetables:

• Stir in the chopped spinach or bitter leaf and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the greens are tender.

1. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or spices to your preference.
2. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and serve the melon sauce hot. It pairs well with pounded yam, fufu, rice, or any preferred staple.

Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Melon (Egusi) Sauce!