Garden egg sauce is a delightful Nigerian dish that beautifully complements boiled yams. This simple garden-to-table Garden Egg Sauce Recipe features fresh ingredients harvested straight from my home container garden. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own bountiful container garden or wish to buy viable seeds for growing tropical plants in the diaspora, visit www.esteelicious.com. Now, let’s cook our egg sauce delicacy!
Ingredients For Garden Egg Sauce Recipe
Fresh Produce
- 10-12 medium-sized garden eggs (also known as eggplants)
- 2-4 medium tomatoes
- 1 long bell pepper
- 2 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust according to your heat preference)
- A handful of ugu leaves (fluted pumpkin)
- A handful of scent leaves
Pantry Essentials
- 2 tablespoons palm oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ground crayfish (optional)
- 2 seasoning cubes
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 smoked fish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by washing your garden harvest in salt water to remove any impurities. Remove the stalks from the garden eggs and prepare all other ingredients as needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large pan, heat a mixture of palm oil and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Base
Add the blended or finely chopped tomatoes, long bell pepper, and scotch bonnet peppers to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavours meld together.
Step 4: Incorporate the Garden Eggs
Chop or blend the garden eggs to your preferred texture and add them to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with ground crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, and salt. Let the mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the garden eggs to soften and absorb the flavours.
Step 6: Add the Smoked Fish
If you’re using smoked fish, carefully debone it and add it to the sauce to enhance the flavour. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Just before serving, fold in the chopped ugu and scent leaves for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garden egg sauce generously over boiled yams for a traditional Nigerian meal. This dish also pairs wonderfully with fried plantains or a crisp salad for a complete dining experience.
Pro Tip
Start boiling your yams early so they are ready to serve alongside the sauce. For added depth of flavour, allow the sauce to sit for a few minutes before serving.
If you’re seeking further inspiration and expert advice on gardening, be sure to visit our website at www.esteelicious.com. We offer a wealth of guides and ideas designed to enhance your home gardening experience. For those eager to deepen their gardening knowledge, don’t miss out on my book, Home Gardening in Diaspora: A Guide to Growing Organic Food in Your Home. This invaluable resource provides practical insights and strategies to cultivate a flourishing garden, no matter where you are located. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. Visit our website and explore the book to transform your gardening journey today!