How to Moimoi, Nigerian bean Pudding (Easy Method)

Moi Moi (also spelled Moin Moin) is a popular Nigerian bean pudding made primarily from blended black-eyed peas (or peeled beans) and a mix of spices, and it’s often enjoyed as a side dish or snack. The pudding is rich, flavorful, and can be prepared with or without extra ingredients like eggs, fish, or corned beef.

My friend Eze said, ”Growing up in Nigeria, the sound of a wooden spoon rhythmically beating a bowl of soaked beans was always a sign that something special was about to happen in the kitchen. He’d sit on the stool, watching His mother effortlessly peel the beans, her hands working swiftly as she hummed along to the radio playing in the background. It was Moi Moi day—a day to look forward to because the air would soon be filled with the aroma of peppers, onions, and crayfish blending together in a way that made his mouth water.

In their home, Moi Moi wasn’t just a dish; it was a tradition. Whether served as a side with jollof rice at Sunday lunch or as a snack with soft bread on a quiet afternoon, it had a way of bringing everyone to the table. His mother’s version was always perfectly spiced, with soft chunks of boiled eggs hidden inside, like little treasures waiting to be discovered.” He taught me his mother’s method.

Years later, I find myself carrying on the tradition in my own kitchen, far from where it all started, but with the same rhythm and care. As I peel the beans and prepare the batter, I think about how this simple dish has traveled across generations and miles, yet its heart remains the same. Now, it’s my turn to make Moi Moi, not just for the taste, but for the memories it holds, the warmth it brings, and the stories it tells.

Let me show you how I make it, just like His mother did.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of peeled beans (black-eyed peas or brown beans)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1-2 red bell peppers (tatashe)
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or palm oil
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish (optional)
• 2 teaspoons seasoning powder (such as Knorr or Maggi)
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed for blending)
• Optional fillings: boiled eggs, sardines, corned beef, smoked fish, or shrimp

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Peel the Beans: Soak the beans in water for about 30 minutes to loosen the skin. Rub the beans between your hands or pulse them in a blender for a few seconds to peel them. Drain the water and rinse several times to remove the skins completely.
2. Blend the Beans: Place the peeled beans, onion, red bell peppers, and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) into a blender. Add water gradually (about 1 to 1 ½ cups) and blend into a smooth, thick paste. You want the consistency to be like a thick pancake batter, not too watery.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

3. Add Seasoning: Pour the blended bean mixture into a large bowl. Stir in the vegetable oil (or palm oil), ground crayfish, seasoning powder, and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning and pepper to your preference.
4. Whisk: Use a whisk or wooden spoon to beat the mixture for several minutes. This helps to incorporate air and make the Moi Moi lighter and fluffier when cooked.

Step 3: Prepare Fillings (Optional)

5. Add Fillings: If you’re using fillings like boiled eggs, sardines, or smoked fish, this is the time to prepare them. You can cut the boiled eggs into halves and debone the fish. Stir the fillings into the bean mixture or layer them when pouring the mixture into the molds.

Read: How to Make Nkatie Cake: A Delicious Twist on Peanut Brittle from Ghana (Easy Method)

Step 4: Cooking Moi Moi

There are various methods to cook Moi Moi, including using foil wraps, small bowls, ramekins, or banana leaves (traditional method).

6. Prepare Cooking Containers: Grease the Moi Moi molds (ramekins, aluminum foil wraps, or Moi Moi leaves) with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
7. Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the Moi Moi mixture into the molds, leaving a bit of space at the top since the pudding will rise slightly during cooking.
8. Steam the Moi Moi:

• In a large pot, place a rack or an overturned dish to elevate the Moi Moi molds above the water.
• Add about 1-2 inches of water to the pot (enough to steam but not to touch the Moi Moi molds). Cover the pot with a lid and steam the Moi Moi for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, checking occasionally and adding more water if necessary to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake Moi Moi in an oven by placing the molds in a water bath and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes.

Read: Homemade Dragonfruit, Fig, and Vanilla Cheesecake

Step 5: Check for Doneness

9. Check: Moi Moi is done when it is firm and solid but not hard. You can test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the Moi Moi is ready.

Step 6: Serve

10. Serve: Allow the Moi Moi to cool slightly before unmolding. Serve warm as a side dish with jollof rice, fried rice, pap (ogi), or even with bread.

Enjoy your delicious Moi Moi!