Red Red is a classic Ghanaian black eyed bean stew, traditionally coloured deep red by palm oil and tomato. It is naturally plant based, rich and comforting, and traditionally served with fried plantain. This simple version takes about 40 minutes and pairs perfectly with a spoonful of shito.
Ingredients, serves 4
- 2 cups cooked black eyed beans, or two 400g tins, drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 ripe tomatoes chopped, or a 400g tin
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 garlic cloves and a thumb of ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chilli, salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe plantains, sliced, to fry
- Coast of Gold Shito, to serve
Method
- Soften the onion in the oil over medium heat, then add the garlic and ginger.
- Stir in the tomato paste and chopped tomatoes and cook down for 5 to 8 minutes until rich.
- Add the beans and a splash of water, then simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper and chilli, or stir in a spoon of shito for smoky heat.
- Fry the plantain slices in a little oil until golden on both sides.
- Serve the stew with the fried plantain and a spoon of Coast of Gold Shito on the side.
Red Red is vegan as written. The shito adds the smoky, spicy lift that makes it sing.
Last updated 21 July 2026.
