Simple, Comforting & Full of Home
Ayimolou is a cherished Togolese everyday meal made from rice and beans cooked together until soft and flavourful. Often served with fried plantains, pepper sauce, or a light stew, this dish represents simplicity, nourishment, and togetherness. It is a meal many Togolese grow up eating, enjoyed at home, in schools, and during family gatherings.
🍽️ Servings
Serves 4 people
📝 Ingredients
- Long-grain rice – 300 g
- Dried black-eyed beans or brown beans – 250 g
- Onion, chopped – 1 medium
- Palm oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – to taste
- Water – 1.2 litres
For Serving (Optional but Traditional)
- Ripe plantains, sliced and fried
- Fresh pepper sauce
- Fried fish or grilled chicken
👩🏽🍳 Instructions
- Cook the beans
Wash the beans thoroughly.
In a pot, cook beans in water for 35–40 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the base
In a large pot, add palm oil and chopped onion.
Cook gently until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. - Combine rice and beans
Add the cooked beans to the pot and stir well.
Add washed rice and water. Season with salt. - Cook the Ayimolou
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is soft and water is absorbed. - Rest & serve
Turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with fried plantains, pepper sauce, or fish.
🌸 Mani’s Tips
- Cooking beans separately helps control texture and reduces cooking time.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the rice grains.
- A little palm oil adds colour and depth, but don’t overuse it.
- Ayimolou tastes even better the next day when flavours settle.
🤍 Mani’s Blessing
May this simple and nourishing meal remind you that comfort often comes from the most humble ingredients.
May your table be filled with gratitude, shared laughter, and moments of peace. 🌾🤍