African-Seasoned Rice and Green Gram Beans

African-Seasoned Rice and Green Gram Beans

Rice dishes are typical recipes among African rural and urban communities. Rice dishes that incorporate ingredients like green grams or mung beans are described as classic African dishes. Green Gram is a small green, black or yellow in color common bean with a mild earthy favor.

The seeds or the flour may be used in a variety of dishes like soups, porridge, snacks, bread, noodles and even ice cream. The mix of green grams and rice is uniquely prepared using freshly squeezed coconut milk served as a main meal during lunch or dinner. Green grams or mung beans are known as Ndengu and Pojo in Kiswahili.

Green grams are commonly grown in Kenya but are native crops of India. Tanzania green grams are known as Nuru and Imara. The dry beans are a good source of vitamins and minerals and contain around 20% protein. Rice and beans is a type of dish many cultures around the world claim as a national dish. Rice and green gram beans is a classic comfort food combo in African communities.

African-Seasoned Rice and Green Gram Beans

Prep: 5 mins

Cook: 25 mins

Total: 30 mins

Servings: 5

Yield: 5 servings

Serving size: 1/2 cup

 

Ingredients

3½ cups canned green gram, drained

¾ cup uncooked white rice

1½ cups low sodium, low fat vegetable broth

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

¾ cup coconut milk

1 teaspoon sea salt

 

Directions

In a stockpot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion, garlic, and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the rice and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover, lower the heat, and cook for 20 minutes. Add the salt, green grams and coconut milk and stir after 2 minutes. Leave covered over very low heat to dry for 10 minutes.

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