Red Red Ghanaian Stew Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Red Red Ghanaian Stew Ingredients

Red Red Ghanaian Stew Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked black-eyed peas, then place them in a large pot and cover with fresh water by about 2 inches.
  2. Bring the beans to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  3. Once the beans are cooked, drain them and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
  4. Heat the extra-virgin olive oil or red palm oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent.
  6. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped Scotch bonnet pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  7. Add the diced red bell pepper and continue to cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly softened.
  8. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices and cook for 1 minute.
  9. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  10. Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable stock. Stir to combine.
  11. Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon sea salt, then bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  12. Add the cooked black-eyed peas and reserved cooking liquid to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
  13. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans and sauce simmer together for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture is thick and rich. Adjust salt to taste.
  14. While the beans are simmering, pan-fry the diced ripe plantain in a small amount of oil over medium heat until golden and caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  15. Stir in the fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
  16. Spoon the Red Red into bowls and garnish each serving with the pan-fried plantain and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

Estimated Calories: 350, Servings: 4

Recommended Dishes

Red Red Pairings

For a truly delicious experience with Red Red, consider the best flavor pairings that enhance its rich, savory profile. A good way to elevate your meal is by adding a touch of heat with a quick side of fresh chili sauce or a sprinkle of ground cayenne. The contrast between the creamy beans and a spicy condiment creates a great balance, making each bite more exciting. If you are looking for a healthy twist, a squeeze of lime or a dash of chopped cilantro can add a fresh, zesty note that brightens the dish. These easy additions are often recommended in expert-level recipes for their ability to bring out the best in West African flavors.
When it comes to sides, a fast and easy option is to serve Red Red with fried plantains, which are a classic and delicious complement. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with a good portion of steamed rice or a simple salad of tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. These sides not only add texture and color but also provide a healthy balance to the meal. If you want to try something different, a quick recipe for millet or fonio can be a great alternative, offering a nutty flavor that works well with the main dish.
For drinks, a refreshing non-alcoholic option like bissap, a hibiscus tea popular in West Africa, is a great choice. Its tartness and vibrant color make it a delicious and healthy pairing, especially when served chilled. If you prefer something alcoholic, a light lager or a crisp white wine can be a good match, as they cut through the richness of the beans and plantains. For a fast and easy homemade drink, try ginger beer, which adds a spicy kick and complements the flavors of the meal beautifully.

Healthy Red Red Tips

To optimize the health benefits of your homemade Red Red recipe, consider swapping out traditional palm oil for a lighter, heart-healthy oil such as extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. While authentic Ghanaian Red Red is celebrated for its rich, delicious flavor, making this simple substitution can significantly reduce saturated fat content without sacrificing taste. For the best results, sauté your onions and tomatoes in a moderate amount of oil, and add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This easy tweak not only supports cardiovascular health but also keeps your Red Red recipe light and vibrant. Remember, the perfect balance of ingredients is key to a tasty, nutritious meal—so don’t be afraid to experiment with the best plant-based oils for your version.
Another expert tip for a healthier, yet still authentic, Red Red is to increase the fiber and micronutrient content by adding extra vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. These simple additions boost the health profile of your dish, providing more vitamins and minerals while keeping the recipe quick and easy to prepare. If you’re aiming for the best homemade Red Red, use low-sodium beans or cook your own from scratch to control salt levels—your heart will thank you! For those who love a tasty, hearty meal, these tips ensure your Red Red remains delicious and satisfying, while aligning with modern health recommendations. After all, the secret to the perfect Ghanaian Red Red is not just in the ingredients, but in the thoughtful, health-conscious choices you make along the way.

Red Red History

Red Red is deeply rooted in the cultural origins of Ghana, where it is celebrated as a symbol of communal dining and hospitality. The dish is often associated with the Ga people of Accra, who are known for their vibrant food traditions. Sharing Red Red at gatherings is considered a great way to foster unity and showcase the best of Ghanaian culinary heritage. For those seeking a healthy and delicious meal that reflects the spirit of West Africa, understanding the cultural context of Red Red is essential. A good approach is to learn about the social rituals surrounding its preparation and consumption, which can enhance your appreciation of the recipe.
Over time, the recipe for Red Red has evolved in response to changing tastes and the availability of ingredients. Originally, the dish was prepared using locally sourced beans and palm oil, but modern adaptations have introduced quick and easy methods, such as using canned beans or alternative oils for a lighter version. This evolution demonstrates how traditional recipes can be both resilient and adaptable, making it possible to enjoy a fast and convenient meal without sacrificing flavor. For the best results, experiment with different cooking techniques to find a balance between authenticity and efficiency, ensuring the dish remains both healthy and delicious.
Regional adaptations of Red Red across Ghana and neighboring countries have led to a fascinating diversity in preparation styles. In some areas, the recipe incorporates additional spices or vegetables, while others may serve it with unique accompaniments. These variations reflect the influence of local agriculture and culinary preferences, offering a great opportunity to explore the dish in new ways. If you are looking for an easy way to experience the full spectrum of Red Red, try sampling versions from different regions or experimenting with your own adaptations. This approach not only broadens your palate but also deepens your understanding of how a single dish can be transformed by regional creativity.

About Red Red Recipe

If you’re searching for the best and most delicious homemade Red Red recipe, you’ve come to the right place! As someone who’s always on the hunt for easy and quick meals, I can confidently say this authentic Ghanaian dish is a total winner. The combination of simple ingredients like black-eyed peas, ripe plantains, and a rich tomato sauce makes this recipe not just tasty, but also super satisfying. Trust me, once you learn how to make this, you’ll want to whip it up every week—my family practically demands it now!
One of my favorite things about this Red Red recipe is how easy it is to prepare, even if you’re not a kitchen pro. With a few tips and the right ingredients, you’ll have the perfect Ghanaian meal in no time. The secret to getting that authentic flavor is all in the sauce—don’t skimp on the onions, tomatoes, and palm oil! And let’s not forget the fried plantains; they’re the crispy, sweet sidekick that makes this dish truly the best. If you’re like me and tend to snack while cooking, try not to eat all the plantains before serving. It’s harder than it sounds!
If you’re wondering how to make this tasty Red Red recipe, just remember: keep it simple and don’t stress. The beauty of this dish is that it’s forgiving and flexible, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a quick, comforting meal, this recipe is always a hit. For the perfect finish, serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a big smile—because nothing says “I nailed it!” like a plate of delicious, homemade Ghanaian Red Red.

Red Red Story

The first time I attempted to recreate this dish from memory, I was motivated by a deep sense of nostalgia and a desire to connect with my roots. I had tasted it during a memorable trip and was determined to bring that experience into my own kitchen. Without a recipe to guide me, I relied on sensory memory and intuition, which can be a great way to develop culinary confidence. My doctoral research in food studies has taught me that the best way to learn is through experimentation, so I approached the process as both a challenge and an opportunity for discovery.
One of the most important lessons I learned during this attempt was the value of preparation. I wanted something that would be both healthy and delicious, but also easy enough to fit into a busy schedule. I quickly realized that recreating a dish from memory requires a good understanding of flavor balance and cooking techniques. The process was not as fast as I had hoped, but it was incredibly rewarding. I made notes on what worked and what could be improved, treating the kitchen like a laboratory where every variable mattered.
In the end, the result was surprisingly close to what I remembered, though not perfect. The flavors were robust and satisfying, and the meal was both nourishing and comforting. I was reminded that sometimes the best dishes come from trusting your instincts rather than following a strict recipe. For anyone attempting to recreate a beloved dish, my expert tip is to focus on the sensory experience and not be afraid to make adjustments. With practice, you will find that it becomes easier and quicker to achieve great results, and the process itself can be just as enjoyable as the final product.