Afro Vegan: Family Recipes From a British-Nigerian Kitchen

Exploring the vibrant flavors of a British-Nigerian kitchen through Afro Vegan family recipes is a journey of rich heritage, bold spices, and wholesome, plant-based ingredients. These recipes beautifully fuse traditional Nigerian culinary techniques with vegan principles, creating dishes that are not only delicious but also nourishing for the whole family.

Whether you’re new to Afro vegan cooking or looking to deepen your connection to British-Nigerian culture through food, these family recipes offer a delightful blend of taste and history. From hearty stews bursting with umami to crispy fried plantains and comforting jollof rice, the meals are as colorful as they are satisfying.

In this blog post, you’ll discover how to prepare beloved Afro vegan dishes that bring people together around the table. These recipes honor family traditions while embracing a compassionate lifestyle, making them perfect for anyone seeking to add more plant-based options with a cultural twist to their cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Afro Vegan recipe collection is perfect for families who want to enjoy authentic Nigerian flavors without animal products. The meals are packed with protein-rich legumes, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices that create layers of complex flavor.

You’ll appreciate how these dishes are comforting yet light, making them ideal for any season.

Additionally, this cooking style encourages the use of wholesome, natural ingredients, promoting a healthier lifestyle. The recipes are designed to be accessible, budget-friendly, and adaptable, so you can easily tweak them to match your pantry or taste preferences.

Plus, these dishes bring a wonderful sense of community and tradition to your dining table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups brown rice – a staple base for many Nigerian dishes
• 1 cup black-eyed peas – soaked overnight for tenderness
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet chili, deseeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup palm oil or substitute with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option
• 2 cups spinach or other leafy greens, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh sieve (for rinsing grains and peas)
• Chopping board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet or frying pan

Instructions

1. Prepare the black-eyed peas: Rinse the peas thoroughly and soak them overnight in cold water. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
2. Cook the black-eyed peas: Place the soaked peas in a pot with fresh water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the rice: Rinse the brown rice under cold water and cook according to package instructions, usually about 40-45 minutes. Set aside once done.
4. Make the base sauce: Heat the palm or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the peppers and tomatoes: Stir in the red bell pepper, Scotch bonnet chili, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 7-10 minutes, allowing the mixture to soften and thicken.
6. Season the sauce: Add smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 2 more minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Combine peas and greens: Add the cooked black-eyed peas and spinach to the sauce. Stir gently and cook until the spinach wilts, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Mix rice and sauce: Fold the cooked brown rice into the skillet with the sauce and beans, stirring until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
9. Finish with lime juice: Remove from heat and add the lime juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve warm: Plate the Afro Vegan rice and peas dish and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a small piece of smoked dried fish (if not strictly vegan) or smoked paprika.

You can substitute black-eyed peas with kidney beans or chickpeas if preferred. Adding diced sweet potatoes or carrots can also boost the nutritional profile and add natural sweetness.

If palm oil is unavailable, coconut oil or olive oil works well, though the flavor will slightly differ.

For a spicier kick, include more Scotch bonnet or add cayenne pepper. To make the dish more filling, serve with a side of fried plantains or steamed vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Afro Vegan rice and peas dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed greens for a light meal. For heartier options, serve alongside fried plantains or vegan moi moi (steamed bean pudding) to keep the authentic Nigerian vibe.

Try complementing your meal with some Bread And Gravy Recipe for a comforting texture contrast, or enjoy a refreshing drink like the Blueberry Mule With Blueberry Vodka Recipe to brighten your dining experience.

For breakfast inspiration that continues the Afro Vegan tradition, check out the Breakfast Wellington Recipe, which offers a delicious plant-based start to your day.

Conclusion

Afro Vegan family recipes from a British-Nigerian kitchen beautifully showcase how culture, tradition, and compassion can blend seamlessly on your plate. These dishes are not only packed with flavor but are also nourishing and inclusive, ideal for families seeking healthier, plant-based alternatives without compromising on taste or heritage.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, these recipes bring warmth, community, and a touch of nostalgia to your table. Embracing Afro Vegan cooking is a wonderful way to celebrate diversity and creativity in the kitchen while supporting a sustainable and ethical lifestyle.

Give these recipes a try and enjoy the soulful flavors of a British-Nigerian kitchen from the comfort of your home.

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