Plantain delivers a delicious contrast. Chewy yet tender, this flavorful dish soaks up a peppery sauce made from fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and Scotch bonnet. Meanwhile, golden fried plantains bring a gentle sweetness that balances the heat, creating a flavor combination that’s both bold and comforting. Altogether, it becomes an irresistible Nigerian favorite, perfect for family meals or festive celebrations.
In addition, this recipe is highly flexible. You can switch between chicken or turkey gizzards, add vegetables for extra color, or reduce the spice for a milder taste. Because of that, Peppered Gizzard works beautifully as a snack, a side dish, or even a main course. It’s also ideal for casual dinners, parties, and other gatherings where bold flavors shine.
Beyond taste, Peppered Gizzard and Plantain carries cultural meaning. Often served at Nigerian weddings, birthdays and family gatherings, it symbolizes togetherness and shared joy. Sharing it sparks conversation, strengthens bonds, and creates lasting memories. Moreover, the vibrant colors, bold flavors and comforting textures reflect the richness of Nigerian cuisine, making each bite a celebration of both tradition and creativity.
With just a few simple ingredients, this beloved dish can easily be recreated at home. Start by cleaning fresh gizzards and chopping your vegetables. Then, follow the easy steps to achieve tender, flavorful results. Finally, serve it hot with golden plantains, steamed rice, or on its own for a truly comforting experience. Cooking Peppered Gizzard and Plantain isn’t just about making food — it’s about creating memorable moments filled with aroma, flavor, and shared happiness
Ingredients for this Recipe
500g chicken gizzards, cleaned
2 ripe plantain, sliced
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
1 orange bell pepper
2 small red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
2 medium tomatoes
2 whole red onion, (1 for cooking, 1 for garnish extra flavor)
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp ginger (fresh or powdered)
1 tsp salt (to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or palm oil if preferred)
1 tsp paprika (optional, for color and mild spice)
Peppered Gizzard and Plantain Recipe (Step by Step)
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients for this recipe, it’s time to bring them to life — one delicious step at a time.
Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Gizzard
Wash the gizzards thoroughly and place them in a pot. Season with salt, seasoning cubes, thyme, curry, and half of the chopped onion. Add a small amount of water and cook until the gizzards become soft and tender. While they simmer, the kitchen fills with a rich, savory aroma that hints at what’s coming next. Keep the stock — it will add deep, rich flavor to your sauce later on.
Step 2: Fry the Gizzard
Heat a little oil in a pan and fry the boiled gizzards until golden brown. This step adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the taste. Once done transfer them to a bowl and set aside while you prepare the plantains.
Step 3: Fry the Plantains
Meanwhile, slice the ripe plantains and fry them in hot oil until golden brown. Their sweetness deepens as they cook, perfectly balancing the spicy sauce. Once done, drain them on paper towels to keep them crisp. (Try not to eat too many — they’re simply irresistible!)
Step 4: Blend and Cook the Pepper Sauce
Blend the tomatoes, Scotch bonnets, and half an onion until smooth. Heat some oil in a clean pan and pour in the blended mixture. Let it fry until the sauce thickens and the raw tomato aroma disappears. Stir in a bit of the gizzard stock to enhance the flavor, then season with salt and your preferred spices.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer Peppered Gizzard with Plantain
Return the fried gizzards to the sauce, stirring to coat them thoroughly. Allow the mixture simmer gently for about three minutes letting the flavors blend beautifully. Next add the fried plantains and toss carefully so everything is evenly coated in the rich, spicy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Gizzard with Plantain
Top the dish with chopped red, green, and yellow bell peppers, adding a burst of color and freshness. Serve it hot and watch the smiles around the table. The flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with Jolof rice, fried rice, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Peppered Gizzard with Plantain — Made with Love and Meant to Be Shared
This meal shines because the spicy gizzards pair perfectly with sweet fried plantains, creating a combination full of comfort and flavor. Each bite brings a sense of joy that makes every meal feel special. Beyond being just a recipe, it’s a reminder of how food can bring people closer together. Served at a lively celebration or a quiet family dinner, Peppered Gizzard and Plantain always adds warmth to the table — a dish made and shared with love.
For those who enjoy exploring Nigerian cuisine, check out our step-by-step guide to cooking Egusi Soup perfectly, with tips on achieving a smooth and flavorful result.
