How To Make Buka Stew (Mama Put): The Rich Flavours of Nigeria

Introducing Buka Stew (Mama Put)

Buka stew (Mama Put) is a popular Nigerian dish that is known for its rich flavours and comforting essence. Mama Put eateries play an important role in the food scene in Nigeria, especially during busy lunch hours and breakfast, when people line up at informal food stalls called “bukas.” These places are well-known for serving delicious Nigerian dishes, with Buka Stew being a popular choice. They are conveniently located near workplaces and inside markets to cater to local office workers looking for a quick lunch.

The term “Mama Put” describes a cosy and friendly way for customers to order food at local stalls. When diners place their orders, they often speak directly to the vendor in a relaxed manner. For example, someone might say, “Mama, put rice and beans”, or they might get specific, saying something like, “Mama, I’d like rice, beans, plantain, and 2 pieces of cow skin (pomo) for me, put one fish and one egg”

This kind of interaction shows just how important traditional meals are to the culture and highlights the personal touch that makes these food stalls stand out, especially in a busy city. Despite the affordable prices, these stalls attract both wealthy and less fortunate customers alike.

Ingredients

Tomato

• 1kg of tomato (‘awarawa tomato’ refers to semi-spoiled tomatoes that have lost their water content)
• Awarawa tomatoes are favoured for buka stew due to their softness and unique, developed taste.
• Texture: They soften quickly, creating a smooth, thick stew base. 
• Flavour: They develop a distinct, slightly sweet and savoury taste when cooked, which is highly desirable in buka stew. 
• Authenticity: In Nigerian cuisine, especially in buka stew, the use of locally sourced ingredients like Awarawa tomatoes is often preferred for achieving the traditional taste. 

Pepper

• Tatashe
• Shombo (a type of cayenne)
• Habanero peppers (atarodo)
• If you can’t find tatashe peppers, you can substitute them with fresh paprika peppers.

Proteins

• Beef cuts
• Beef intestines (roundabout)
• Cow tripe (shaki)
• Cow skin (ponmo, kanda)
• Liver
• Fish (dried fish) – optional
• Fried mackerel fish: You can incorporate it into the stew or keep it separate

Seasoning

• Seasoning cubes 
• Thyme to taste
• Salt to taste
• Curry powder to taste
• Locust Beans (Iru) – optional

Other Ingredients

• small 2 onions
• 2-3 tablespoons ground crayfish
• Water (as needed)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Tomato and Pepper Blend:

• Start by washing the tomatoes and peppers thoroughly.
• Take a large pot and add the tomato. Heat it on, cooking it until most of the water has evaporated.
• Place them in a blender with half of the chopped onion and blend until smooth.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, combine the ingredients coarsely.

Meat Preparation:

• If you haven’t done so already, cook your assorted meats in a pot with water, seasoning cubes, and salt until tender.
• This can take about 30-45 minutes, depending on the type and cut of meat. Reserve the stock after cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Stew Base:

Heat the Vegetable Oil:

• In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat.
• The oil should become clear, and it’s crucial to let it heat for a few minutes to remove its raw taste.
• Be careful not to overheat it to the point of smoking.

Sauté Onions:

• Add the remaining chopped onions to the heated oil and sauté until they become translucent.
• This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tomato and Pepper Mixture

• Pour the blended tomato and pepper mixture into the pot.
• Stir well to combine with the onions.
• Allow this to cook on medium heat until the water evaporates, and the oil starts to float on top.
• Stir occasionally, as this can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Meat

• Once the tomato mixture has thickened significantly and the flavours have melded together, add the pre-cooked assorted meats.
• If desired, include some of the reserved meat stock to help with consistency; however, be cautious not to make the stew too watery.
• Stir in the ground crayfish and locust bean (iru), which adds a deep, savoury flavour to the stew. Season with salt and adjust the seasoning cubes if necessary.
• Allow the stew to simmer for another 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavours to combine.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

• Taste the stew and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
• Aim for a balance between the rich flavours of the meat, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the heat from the peppers

Step 6: Serve

• Buka stew can be served over cooked rice or any rice of your choice. It can be served with all the options mentioned earlier. rice, beans, yams, bread, etc.
• It’s often accompanied by side dishes such as fried plantains or salad. Garnish with steamed vegetables if desired, and enjoy!

Tips for Authentic Flavour:

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavour. Fresh ‘awarawa’ tomatoes and ripe peppers give the stew a vibrant taste.
• Oil: The type of vegetable or cooking oil used greatly influences the taste. Unrefined oil has a nutty flavour that enhances the stew.
• Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers based on how spicy you like your stew. For a milder version, you can reduce the quantity or remove the seeds from some of the peppers before blending.

Health Benefits of Mama Put Stew

Mama Put stew, a popular Nigerian dish typically served in local eateries, is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. Here are some of the notable benefits:

1. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Mama Put stew often includes rich ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various spices. These ingredients are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that can support overall health.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: The tomatoes and peppers are high in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The spices used in Mama Put stew, such as ginger and garlic, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
4. Boosts Metabolism: Many of the ingredients, like chilli peppers, can help boost metabolism and promote weight management.
5. Supports Digestive Health: The high fiber content from the vegetables can promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
6. Protein Boost: If the stew includes meat, fish, or beans, it becomes a great source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
7. Hydration: The stew is often cooked with a good amount of liquid, which can contribute to hydration when consumed.
8. Comfort Food: Beyond the physical benefits, Mama Put stew is often enjoyed as a comfort food, providing emotional satisfaction and a sense of community when shared with others

Enjoying Mama Put stew as part of a balanced diet can provide these benefits, contributing to overall well-being.

Bottomline

Nigerian buka stew (mama put) is a delicious, hearty, and aromatic dish that’s easy to make once you gather your ingredients. It’s perfect for gatherings, family meals, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing this flavorful stew with friends and family!

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