Bole (Special): A Savory Nigerian Snack of Roasted Plantains with Palm Oil and Nuts
If youโre looking for a snack that is both nourishing and bursting with flavor, Bole (Special) offers an irresistible combination of roasted plantains, special palm oil, and a delightful mix of nuts. This traditional Nigerian dish is popular across the nation and serves as a perfect street food or a unique addition to your next meal spread. Perfectly balanced, this snack provides a satisfying mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures while offering numerous health benefits.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plantains | 4-5 medium-sized | Firm, slightly ripe plantains work best for roasting. |
| Special palm oil | 1/4 cup | Premium palm oil enhances flavor and adds richness. |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup | Roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness. |
| Tiger nuts (optional) | 1/4 cup | Soaked tiger nuts provide an earthy flavor. |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust according to preference. |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds a mild spice kick to balance sweetness. |
| Optional seasoning (e.g. garlic powder, chili flakes) | To taste | For extra seasoning to taste. |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200-250 kcal | 10-12% |
| Protein | 4-5 grams | 8-10% |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50 grams | 15-18% |
| Fiber | 5-6 grams | 20-25% |
| Fat | 7-9 grams | 10-15% |
| Saturated fat | 1-2 grams | 5-7% |
| Potassium | 400-500 mg | 10-15% |
| Vitamin C | 5-7 mg | 7-10% |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Plantains
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Begin by selecting ripe but firm plantains. The plantains should have a slight yellow tint to them without being overly ripe (not too black). Peel the plantains and cut them into thick diagonal slices about 2 inches long.
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Preheat your grill, oven, or a cast-iron pan over medium heat for roasting. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to avoid sticking. Alternatively, you can line a baking tray with parchment paper for oven roasting.
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Place the plantain slices onto the preheated grill or in the oven. Roast them for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown color and crispy edges. Make sure to flip them halfway through the roasting process for an even cook.
Step 2: Preparing the Nuts
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While the plantains are roasting, heat a small pan over low-medium heat. Add the peanuts (and tiger nuts, if using) to the pan and toast them lightly for about 3-5 minutes. This brings out the nuttiness and gives them a nice crunch. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Once the nuts are toasted and fragrant, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool.
Step 3: Preparing the Special Palm Oil
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In a separate small saucepan, heat the special palm oil over low heat. Let it warm up but not boil, as overheating palm oil can cause it to lose some of its characteristic flavor. You only need about 1/4 cup of palm oil for this recipe.
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Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to the oil to season it. For an extra touch of flavor, you can include garlic powder, chili flakes, or any other seasoning you desire.
Step 4: Assembling the Bole (Special)
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Once the plantains are roasted to perfection, remove them from the grill or oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
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Drizzle the warm special palm oil over the plantain slices, allowing the oil to soak in and infuse the plantains with flavor.
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Sprinkle the toasted peanuts (and tiger nuts, if using) over the plantains. You can also add a little more seasoning if desired.
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Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of salt or extra seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
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Serve your Bole (Special) immediately while itโs warm and fresh. It pairs wonderfully with a cold drink like palm wine or a soft drink of your choice.
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Enjoy this healthy, satisfying snack as a mid-day treat, a side dish for a larger meal, or as a crowd-pleasing addition to your next gathering.
Health Benefits of Bole (Special)
Bole (Special) is not only a delicious snack, but it also offers several health benefits. Plantains, a key ingredient in this dish, are rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. These nutrients contribute to digestive health, heart health, and immune function. The addition of palm oil provides healthy fats that can help improve skin health and energy levels, while the peanuts and tiger nuts offer additional protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals.
This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a snack that satisfies hunger while also offering nutritional value. Whether you are enjoying it as an afternoon snack or serving it at a celebration, Bole (Special) is sure to become a favorite.
Enjoy your journey into Nigerian cuisine with this easy-to-make Bole (Special) recipe. The blend of roasted plantains, flavorful palm oil, and crunchy nuts creates a memorable dish that showcases the heart of Nigerian street food culture. This snack brings people together with its comforting taste, and itโs one that can be enjoyed by family and friends alike.
Try this recipe, and youโll have a snack thatโs not only packed with taste but also health benefitsโperfect for any time of the day!
