Name: Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: African
Ingredients: 8 cups spinach, chopped; 2 cups mushrooms, washed and drained; 2 roma tomatoes; 1 red bell pepper; 1 habanero pepper; 1 onion; 12 oz cooked meat (traditionally goat meat, but any meat can be used); ½ cup palm oil; ¼ cup water or stock (optional, for fresh spinach); 2 teaspoons bouillon powder; 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons ground crayfish; 1 teaspoon pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 50 reviews

If you’re searching for a vibrant and soul-satisfying dish that bursts with flavor and tradition, look no further than this Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe. This hearty stew combines tender goat meat, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a richly spiced tomato and pepper base, all cooked in luscious palm oil to give it that authentic, deeply aromatic taste. Whether you’re a longtime fan of West African cuisine or eager to explore bold new flavors, this recipe captures the essence of Nigerian homestyle cooking with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls placed on a white marbled surface. One bowl is filled with chopped green leafy herbs, another smaller bowl has mixed brown and red spices, while a third bowl contains cooked dark brown pieces of meat. The last white bowl holds sliced cooked mushrooms with a brown and beige color. Nearby, there is a white marbled surface with three red tomatoes and a small green measuring cup filled with red liquid. A small orange chili is also visible next to the measuring cup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this stew. While the list might look extensive, each item plays a crucial role in adding depth, spice, or freshness to your dish.

Spinach (8 cups, chopped): The star green leafy vegetable that gives the stew its name and vibrant color.
Goat meat (12 oz, cooked): Offers a unique, tender richness that complements the spices beautifully.
Mushrooms (2 cups): Adds an earthy, meaty texture that makes the stew even more satisfying.
Palm oil (½ cup): Essential for that signature reddish color and deep, nutty flavor.
Roma tomatoes (2): Provide sweetness and acidity to balance the spices.
Red bell pepper (1): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
Habanero pepper (1): Brings the stew’s signature heat – adjust to your spice tolerance!
Onion (1): Infuses the stew with aromatic depth.
Water or stock (¼ cup): Keeps the stew moist and enhances flavor, especially with fresh spinach.
Bouillon powder (2 tsp): Boosts umami and enhances the meaty taste.
Cayenne pepper (2 tsp): Elevates the spiciness with a smoky kick.
Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a subtle peppery note.
Ground crayfish (2 tsp): A traditional seasoning that brings oceanic umami to the stew.
Pepper flakes (1 tsp, optional): For those who want an extra fiery punch.
Salt (1 tsp or to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base Blend

Start by blending two roma tomatoes, the red bell pepper, habanero, and half of the onion until you have a smooth, fragrant mixture. This forms the spicy and fresh foundation of the stew that will simmer to create incredible aroma and flavor.

Step 2: Chop and Prepare Fresh Ingredients

While the base blend rests, chop the remaining onion and wash your spinach and mushrooms thoroughly. If using frozen spinach, be sure to microwave it briefly to defrost and drain any excess moisture for the best texture.

Step 3: Sauté Onions in Palm Oil

Heat half a cup of palm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about two minutes until translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for releasing the sweet aroma of the onions and building depth of flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Blended Pepper Mixture

Pour the blended tomato and pepper mix into the pot. Stir well and cook for about a minute to meld with the sautéed onions. Then, add all your spices including bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ground crayfish, optional pepper flakes, and salt. Let this cook on medium heat for about five minutes to thicken and intensify the flavor.

Step 5: Add Stock and Meats

If using fresh spinach, add the quarter cup of water or stock now and bring it to a gentle boil. Incorporate your cooked goat meat and mushrooms into the pot. Let everything simmer together for approximately five minutes so the flavors meld and the meats soften further before adding the greens.

Step 6: Incorporate the Spinach

Add your chopped spinach and stir intermittently. Let this simmer for about five minutes as the spinach wilts and absorbs the stew’s rich flavors. Feel free to adjust seasoning with a little more salt or spice to suit your taste buds before turning off the heat.

How to Serve Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe

The dish is served in a white bowl filled with a mix that looks like three main layers: the bottom has a red, oily sauce with a shiny texture, on top of this sits dark green cooked leafy vegetables mixed heavily with small pieces of red and orange ingredients evenly spread, and the top layer shows meaty brown pieces covered by some of the green leaves and sauce, giving a rich, thick look. The colors are mainly dark green, brown, and red with a glossy finish. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your stew with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want to dial up the heat. Freshly chopped herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra palm oil can add a glossy, inviting touch that makes the dish even more appetizing on the table.

Side Dishes

This Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe pairs beautifully with traditional Nigerian staples such as pounded yam, fufu, or even steamed white rice. These sides provide a perfect canvas to scoop up the rich, spicy stew and balance its robust flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the stew in a rustic bowl with a small mound of your chosen side in the center, allowing the vibrant stew to pool around it elegantly. Garnish with slices of fried plantains or roasted yams for a pop of color and texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, the stew will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it great for quick reheats and meals during a busy week.

Freezing

This Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Label for easy identification to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of water or stock if the stew has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the spinach tender and the goat meat juicy.

FAQs

Can I substitute goat meat with another protein?

Absolutely! While goat meat lends authentic flavor and tenderness, you can swap it for lamb, beef, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just ensure your chosen protein is cooked before adding it to the stew.

Is palm oil necessary for authentic flavor?

Palm oil is traditional and gives the stew its distinctive color and nutty aroma. If you can’t find it, you can use red palm oil or a combination of vegetable oil with a little paprika for color, but the flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this stew less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce the amount of habanero and cayenne pepper or omit the pepper flakes altogether. You can also add a little sugar or more tomatoes to balance the heat while keeping the flavor intact.

How do I use frozen spinach in this recipe?

If opting for frozen spinach, defrost it first by microwaving or leaving it at room temperature. Drain well to avoid adding excess water to the stew, which can dilute the flavors.

What is ground crayfish, and can I omit it?

Ground crayfish is dried, pulverized crayfish commonly used in Nigerian cooking to enhance umami and depth. If unavailable, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of fish sauce or anchovy paste for a similar effect.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a well-made Nigerian Spinach Stew (Efo Riro) with Goat Meat and Mushrooms Recipe. It’s a dish that invites you into the heart of Nigerian culinary tradition while welcoming your own twists and personal touches. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this stew as much as I do—it’s truly a celebration of bold flavors and hearty ingredients that bring people together at the table.