Baked Beans with Nigerian Seasonings

Tender white beans baked with onions, garlic, curry, tomatoes, and a touch of peanut butter for a rich, savory Nigerian-inspired casserole. Serve hot with bread or vegetables.

Great

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Soak the beans overnight in water to cover by 5 inches. Drain, discarding the soaking liquid.

Step 2

Put the beans in a pot with 3 1/2 cups of water and bring to a boil, skimming off the scum that rises to the top. Cover partially, turn the heat down to low, and simmer gently for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the beans are just tender.

Step 3

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a flame- and ovenproof, casserole-type dish over medium-high heat. Add the onion and stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the onion has just wilted. Put in the garlic and cook another 2 minutes, stirring now and then.

Step 4

Add the curry powder and stir once or twice, then stir in the tomatoes. Cook 7 to 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened. Turn off the heat.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 325°F.

Step 6

Put the peanut butter in a small bowl or cup. When the beans have finished cooking, remove about 6 tablespoons of their liquid from the pot and slowly add it to the peanut butter, stirring as you go.

Step 7

Empty the beans with their remaining liquid into the casserole with the onion, garlic, and tomatoes. Stir in the peanut butter mixture, the salt, and lots of black pepper.

Step 8

Bake, uncovered, for 2 hours, until very tender. Serve hot.