Tuwo Shinkafa da Miyan Taushe (Mashed Rice Balls with Spiced Pumpkin, Spinach & Peanut Stew) – Authentic Niger Recipe

Ingredients for Tuwo Shinkafa da Miyan Taushe (Mashed Rice Balls with Spiced Pumpkin, Spinach & Peanut Stew) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) cubed sweet pumpkin, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup roasted groundnut and tomato broth with soft rice balls
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with ginger
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Niger seasoning (garlic, locust bean/umami note, scallions, cilantro)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and ginger for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in garlic, locust bean/umami note, scallions, cilantro and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Niger's kitchen.
3. Add cubed sweet pumpkin and fresh spinach leaves, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in roasted groundnut and tomato broth with soft rice balls, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.