Vegan Ayamase (Green Pepper Stew)

Discover the vibrant flavors of Vegan Ayamase, a plant-based twist on the beloved Nigerian green pepper stew. This nutrient-packed recipe combines a rich blend of green bell peppers, fiery scotch bonnets, and fragrant locust beans (iru) for a bold and earthy flavor profile. Cubes of golden-brown extra-firm tofu soak up the aromatic sauce, while smoked paprika and a ground crayfish substitute add depth to every bite. Finished with tender wilted spinach, this hearty stew is simmered to perfection and best served with fluffy rice or sweet plantains. Quick to prep and brimming with authentic West African flavors, Vegan Ayamase is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 6 green bell peppers
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers
• 2 large onion
• 450 grams extra-firm tofu
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 vegetable bouillon cube
• 2 tablespoons locust beans (iru)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish substitute
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 100 grams spinach
• 500 milliliters water

Directions

Step 1

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Slice the tofu into cubes and set aside.

Step 2

Roughly chop the green bell peppers and one and a half onions. Add to a blender along with the scotch bonnet peppers and water. Blend until smooth, then set aside.

Step 3

Dice the remaining half onion and set aside.

Step 4

Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and fry for about 5 minutes, until translucent and golden.

Step 5

Add the blended pepper mixture to the pot and stir well. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Add the vegetable bouillon cube, locust beans, smoked paprika, and ground crayfish substitute. Stir until all the spices are well combined.

Step 7

Add the cubed tofu to the pot. Stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu.

Step 8

Season the mixture with sea salt and black pepper. Cover and allow to simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 9

Once the sauce is thickened and oil begins to float to the surface, add the spinach and stir through. Cook for an additional 5 minutes allowing the spinach to wilt.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.

Step 11

Serve hot with rice, plantains, or your choice of sides.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2310.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1516.2

Total Fat 86.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.9g
Cholesterol 36mg	0%
Sodium 2328.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 108.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 34.1g	0%
Total Sugars 40.2g
Protein 100.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 3380.6mg	0%
Iron 19.9mg	0%
Potassium 3789.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.3%

Protein: 24.9%

Carbs: 26.8%