Ghanaian Banku and Okra Stew (Shellfish-Free)

Ingredients

• 2 cups Banku mix (fermented corn and cassava dough)
• 4 cups Water
• 1 lb Okra
• 3 medium Tomatoes
• 1 large Onion
• 1 medium Red bell pepper
• 1 tbsp Ginger
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1/4 small Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 1 lb Smoked turkey (or beef)
• 1 tsp Salt

Instructions

1. 1Prepare the banku: Mix the banku mix with 2 cups of water to form a smooth paste. Cook in a pot, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon and adding the remaining water gradually until a smooth, elastic dough forms. This takes about 20-30 minutes.
2. 2While making banku, prepare the stew: Chop the okra into small pieces. Blend tomatoes, onion, red bell pepper, ginger, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) into a smooth paste.
3. 3Heat vegetable oil in a separate pot. Sauté the blended tomato mixture for about 10 minutes until it thickens.
4. 4Add the chopped okra and smoked turkey (or beef). Stir well.
5. 5Add a cup of water and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the okra is tender.
6. 6Season with salt to taste.
7. 7Serve the banku with the okra stew.

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