Plantain and Egg Sauce Recipe

This plantain and egg sauce recipe is one of those comforting meals that instantly feels like home to me. In many Nigerian households, including mine, this dish is a go-to option whenever we want something filling, affordable, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of sweet, ripe plantains and rich, savory egg sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that works beautifully for breakfast, lunch, or even a quick dinner after a long day.

What I love most about this plantain and egg sauce recipe is how simple it is, yet how deeply flavorful it turns out every single time. With just a handful of basic ingredients like eggs, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and plantains, you can create a meal that feels complete and nourishing. It is also very flexible, meaning you can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or even include protein like sausage or corned beef if you want something extra.

In Nigeria, plantain and egg sauce is popular among students, families, and busy professionals because it is quick to prepare and does not require complicated cooking techniques. Whether the plantains are fried until golden or lightly boiled for a healthier option, they pair wonderfully with the egg sauce. This recipe is especially perfect if you are new to African cooking and want to start with something approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 6 medium ripe plantains
• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying plantains)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for egg sauce)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 medium tomatoes, blended or finely chopped
• 2 red bell peppers (tatashe), blended
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (atarodo), blended (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt to taste
• 1 seasoning cube (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced green bell peppers (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped spring onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the plantains. Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally or into round shapes, depending on your preference. Rinse lightly with water and set aside.
2. Heat the 1/2 cup of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the sliced plantains in batches. Fry until golden brown on both sides, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Remove the fried plantains from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Set aside while you prepare the egg sauce.
4. In a separate frying pan or pot, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent.
5. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, making sure it does not burn. This step adds depth and aroma to the egg sauce.
6. Pour in the blended tomatoes, red bell peppers, and scotch bonnet pepper. Stir well, reduce the heat slightly, and allow the mixture to cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate from the pepper mixture.
7. Season the sauce with salt, curry powder, dried thyme, and seasoning cube if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk lightly with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix; you want the eggs to remain fluffy.
9. Gently pour the beaten eggs into the pepper sauce. Stir slowly and continuously to scramble the eggs into the sauce. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the eggs are fully set but still moist.
10. Add sliced green bell peppers and spring onions if using, and stir for another minute. Turn off the heat.
11. Serve the egg sauce hot alongside the fried plantains. Your plantain and egg sauce recipe is now ready to enjoy.

Tips or Variations

One of the best things about this plantain and egg sauce recipe is how adaptable it is. If you prefer a healthier option, you can boil or air-fry the plantains instead of deep frying them. Boiled plantains may be less sweet, but they still pair nicely with the rich egg sauce.

For extra protein and flavor, I sometimes add chopped sausages, corned beef, or minced beef to the sauce. Simply fry the protein with the onions before adding the pepper mixture. Vegetables like carrots, green beans, or spinach can also be added to make the dish more nutritious.

If you do not like spicy food, reduce or completely skip the scotch bonnet pepper. On the other hand, if you enjoy heat, feel free to add more pepper or even a pinch of chili flakes. You can also experiment with spices like paprika or smoked pepper for a deeper flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is plantain and egg sauce healthy?

Yes, plantain and egg sauce can be a healthy meal, especially when prepared with moderate oil. Plantains provide fiber, vitamins, and energy, while eggs are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the egg sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The plantains are best fried fresh, but they can also be reheated if necessary.

Can I use unripe plantains for this recipe?

While ripe plantains are traditionally used for their sweetness, unripe plantains can also work if you prefer a less sweet taste. Keep in mind that unripe plantains will be firmer and slightly starchier.

What can I serve with plantain and egg sauce?

This dish is usually enjoyed on its own, but you can serve it with bread, boiled yam, or even rice. It is very versatile and pairs well with many side dishes.

Conclusion

This plantain and egg sauce recipe is a true classic that never goes out of style. It is simple enough for beginners, yet flavorful enough to impress anyone at the table. I love how this dish brings together sweet and savory elements in such a comforting way, making it perfect for any time of the day.

If you are looking for an easy Nigerian meal that delivers on taste without requiring complicated ingredients, this is the recipe to try. I encourage you to make it your own, experiment with variations, and enjoy every bite. Once you try it, I am confident this plantain and egg sauce recipe will become a regular part of your kitchen routine.