Pounded yam is a popular West African dish that is loved by many. Traditionally, making pounded yam involves manually pounding cooked yam until it becomes smooth and stretchy. However, with the advancement in technology and the introduction of kitchen appliances like food processors, making pounded yam has become quick and easy. In this article, we will explore how to make pounded yam with a food processor using a quick and easy method.
Gather the Ingredients
Before we begin making pounded yam with a food processor, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need:
1. Yam – It is best to choose a soft and starchy variety.
2. Water – Sufficient water for boiling the yam.
3. Salt – To enhance the flavor of the pounded yam.
Make sure you have all these ingredients ready before you start the process.
Peel and Cut the Yam
The first step in making pounded yam with a food processor is to peel and cut the yam. Using a sharp knife, remove the skin from the yam. Once the yam is peeled, cut it into smaller pieces. The size of the pieces will depend on the capacity of your food processor. Smaller pieces are easier to work with, so try to cut the yam into manageable chunks.
Boil the Yam
After cutting the yam, it is time to boil it. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the yam pieces. Make sure the yam is fully submerged in water. Reduce the heat to medium and let the yam cook for about 15-20 minutes or until it becomes soft and tender.
Check the Doneness of the Yam
To check if the yam is cooked, insert a fork or a knife into one of the yam pieces. If it easily slides through without resistance, the yam is done. If there is still some resistance, let the yam cook for a few more minutes and check again.
Drain and Cool the Yam
Once the yam is fully cooked, it is time to drain and cool it. Carefully pour out the hot water from the pot and place the cooked yam in a colander or strainer. Allow the yam to cool for a few minutes until it is comfortable to handle. Cooling the yam is important as it prevents the food processor from overheating during the next step.
Process the Yam
Now comes the most crucial step – processing the yam using a food processor. Transfer the cooled yam into the food processor and lock the lid securely. Start the food processor at a low speed and gradually increase the speed to high. Process the yam for about 2-3 minutes or until it becomes smooth and stretchy.
Add Salt and Continue Processing (Optional)
At this stage, you can choose to add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the pounded yam. Adding salt is optional and depends on personal preference. If you decide to add salt, do it while the food processor is still running. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the pounded yam. Continue processing for an additional minute to incorporate the salt.
Adjust the Consistency (Optional)
If you prefer a softer pounded yam, you can add a small amount of warm water while the food processor is running. Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember to add only a little water at a time to avoid making the pounded yam too runny.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pounded yam reaches your desired consistency, turn off the food processor and transfer the pounded yam to a serving dish. Pounded yam is commonly served with various soups and stews, such as egusi soup or vegetable soup. It can also be enjoyed with fried or grilled meats. Serve the pounded yam hot and enjoy its smooth texture and delicious taste.
Cleaning the Food Processor
After making pounded yam, it is essential to clean your food processor properly. Remove the blade and any removable parts, and wash them with warm soapy water. Pay attention to any crevices or hard-to-reach areas to ensure thorough cleaning. Dry all the parts completely before reassembling the food processor.
Conclusion
Making pounded yam with a food processor is a quick and easy method that saves time and effort. By following the steps mentioned above, you can achieve a smooth and delicious pounded yam without the need for manual pounding. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, using a food processor simplifies the process and allows you to enjoy this traditional West African dish with ease. So, why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade pounded yam?