Delicious Stewed Beans

Hearty Nigerian Stewed Beans with Sweet Corn & Smoked Mackerel

Beans have long been a comfort food across Nigerian homes. But when you add sweet corn, smoked mackerel, tender beef, and a richly spiced stew? You’re creating something unforgettable.

This Stewed Beans with Sweet Corn is comforting, nourishing, and layered with flavor — and perfect when paired with soft fried plantains (dodo) or boiled yam. Whether you’re a beans lover or not, this version might just win you over.

Why You’ll Love This Stewed Beans Recipe

• Flavor-packed: A rich stew base infused with smoked fish and perfectly cooked beef.
• Nutritious: High in protein, fiber, and iron from beans and fish.
• Kid-approved twist: Sweet corn adds pops of natural sweetness and a fun texture kids love.
• Versatile: Perfect with rice, yam, bread, or plantains.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beans

• 2 cups brown beans (or beans of choice)
• Water (for boiling)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 small onion, chopped

For the Stew

• 2–3 tbsp palm oil (plus 1 tbsp vegetable oil – optional)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 small yellow habanero peppers (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ onion (for blending)
• 1 tsp seasoning powder
• ½ tsp chicken seasoning
• Cooked beef (cut into small chunks)
• 1 smoked mackerel, deboned and flaked

Final Additions

• ½ cup canned sweet corn (rinsed)
• 2 tbsp spring onions (chopped)
• Fried plantains or yam (to serve)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down this hearty, flavor-packed stewed beans recipe into easy, approachable steps. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned home cook, this guide will have you plating up deliciousness in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Beans

• For this recipe, I’m using brown beans (also known as Nigerian honey beans), but feel free to use any variety you prefer.

• Begin by rinsing the beans under cool running water to remove any dust or debris.

• Place the beans in a pot of boiling water and bring them to a rolling boil.

• Once it’s bubbling, drain the beans and rinse them thoroughly. This helps reduce gas and improves digestion.
• Transfer the rinsed beans back into your pot.
• Add chopped onions to enhance the flavor from the beginning.

• Pour in enough water to cover the beans completely.
• Cover and allow to cook until the beans are tender and soft to your liking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

• Cut your beef into small bite-sized chunks and place them in a separate pot.
• Add chopped onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a seasoning cube or two.

• Add a splash of water, just enough to help it steam and create its own flavorful broth.
• Stir everything together, cover, and let it cook over medium heat until the beef is tender and the liquid reduces.

Step 3: Prepare the Pepper Mix

• In a blender, combine fresh tomatoes, red bell peppers, spicy yellow Scotch bonnets, garlic cloves, and onions.

• Blend until the mixture is smooth and vibrant. This will form the flavorful base of your stew.

Step 4: Make the Stew Base

• In a large pan or pot, heat palm oil. You can add a little vegetable oil if desired for balance.

• Once hot, toss in some chopped onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the blended pepper mix.

• Allow it to fry on medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and the oil begins to separate.

Step 5: Flavor the Stew

• Add in the cooked beef and its reduced juices.
• Gently fold in flaked smoked mackerel (make sure it’s been deboned and broken into chunks).

• Sprinkle in your preferred seasonings — not too much, just enough to enhance the flavor.
• Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes so everything can come together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

• Add the cooked, soft beans directly into the stew.
• Stir thoroughly to coat the beans in all that rich, spicy sauce.
• Add in some sweet corn (rinsed if using canned) for a bit of sweetness and crunch.
• Toss in sliced spring onions to bring color and freshness.
• Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently on low heat for a few minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Dish up your stewed beans while warm.
• Pair with fried plantains (dodo), soft yam, or even crusty bread — whichever brings you joy.

• Garnish with extra spring onions if desired, and enjoy the comforting, homestyle goodness in every bite.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, portion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat over low heat with a splash of water.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

• Beans: High in protein, iron, and fiber, which supports heart health and digestion.
• Sweet Corn: Rich in antioxidants and natural sugars, great for energy.
• Smoked Mackerel: Provides omega-3 fatty acids and a rich source of protein.

Pairing Suggestions

• Soft Dodo (fried plantains)
• Boiled yam or sweet potatoes
• Toasted bread (great for breakfast or brunch!)
• Rice (for a more traditional vibe)

Final Thoughts

This stewed beans recipe is not just another weekday meal — it’s a hearty bowl of comfort, filled with deep flavors and joyful textures. The sweet corn gives it a playful bite, the smoked fish brings nostalgia, and the spices tie everything together beautifully.

Give it a try and let me know how you served yours!
Tag me on Instagram @joyfulcook_ if you recreate it — I’d love to see your version!

If you enjoyed this recipe, please rate it below and leave a comment. I truly value your feedback, and it helps others find the recipe too!