Ibihaza (Rwandan Beans)
Ibihaza is a traditional dish from Rwanda that features flavorful and hearty beans cooked to perfection. This simple yet delicious recipe is a staple in Rwandan cuisine and can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish.
2 cups dried beans (such as red kidney beans or black-eyed peas)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt, to taste
Water, for cooking
Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under running water. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Allow the beans to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
8 hours
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Add the soaked and rinsed beans to the pot, along with enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cumin, paprika, coriander, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Cover the pot partially with a lid and simmer the beans for about 1–1½ hours, or until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
1½ hours
Season the beans with salt, to taste, and continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5–10 minutes
Remove the pot from the heat and let the beans rest for a few minutes before serving.
- •If using dried beans, it's important to soak them before cooking to help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- •Be sure to discard any discolored or shriveled beans before cooking.
- •Adding a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water can help soften the beans more quickly.
- •For a richer flavor, you can add some chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, or boiled pumpkin to the beans during cooking.
- •Adjust the seasoning and spices according to your preference. You can add more or less depending on your desired taste.
- •You can enhance the flavor of ibihaza by adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach during the cooking process.
- •Some variations of ibihaza include the addition of smoked meat or sausages for added depth of flavor.
- •Beans are a great source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients. They are low in fat, cholesterol-free, and rich in vitamins and minerals.