How to Wrap Moin Moin in Leaves: Step by Step Guide

Cooking Moin Moin in leaves is a rich traditional method of cooking the special beans delicacy. The leaves add a rich, bold flavor to this beloved Nigerian dish. For newbies, wrapping Moin Moin in leaves might seem so difficult, I know, but it’s easier than you think. In this blog post, I will be walking you through every step of the wrapping process, so you can prepare your Moin Moin in leaves like a pro!

 

What Leaves Should You Use?

The most commonly used leaves for Moin Moin are ewe eran (Thaumatococcus daniellii leaves), also known as uma leaves. These large, pliable leaves are ideal for folding and can withstand steaming. If you’re using them for the first time, don’t worry – you’ll get the hang of it.

Also Read: How to Make the Perfect Pap/Akamu/Ogi

Preparing the Leaves

1. Wash the leaves thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and sand.

2. Dip them briefly in hot water to make them more flexible and prevent tearing. This step also helps to release the natural aroma of the leaves.

3. Trim the thick stems at the base of the leaves to make folding easier.

Setting Up Your Steamer

Line the bottom of your pot or steamer with a few large leaves and the thick stems you removed from the back of the leave. This is to prevent the Moin Moin wraps from sticking.

Add a little water to the pot, making sure that it won’t touch the wraps during cooking.

Also Read: Top 13 Traditional Nigerian Breakfast Dishes You Need to Try

 

How to Wrap Moin Moin in Leaves

Here’s where we are going exactly!

Step 1: First of all, place 2 leaves on top of each other, fold them into a cone. The pointed tip of the cone should be at the bottom, and the opening should form a wide “mouth.” Ensure the edges overlap slightly to avoid leaks.

Step 2: Scoop a ladle of your Moin Moin batter into the cone. Be careful not to overfill – leave enough space for folding. About halfway full is perfect.

Step 3: Fold the top of the leaf down over the opening of the cone. Tuck the sides securely to create a firm wrap. This prevents any batter from spilling out during steaming.

Step 4: Place the wrapped Moin Moin upright in the pot, making sure the folded side is at the bottom to maintain the seal.

Continue wrapping and arranging until all the batter is used.

Steaming the Moin Moin

Cover the Moin Moin with extra leaves to trap the steam and enhance the aroma.

Cook on medium heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check occasionally to ensure there’s enough water in the pot to keep steaming. Insert a toothpick into one wrap; if it comes out clean, your Moin Moin is ready.

Also Read: 12 DELICIOUS WEST AFRICAN BEANS MEALS YOU CAN TRY

 

Tips to Note

Don’t worry if your first few wraps are messy. You’ll improve with time.

If a leaf tears, double-wrap it with another leaf to avoid spills.

Rounding Off

Do you still feel as though Moin Moin in leaves isn't for you? Then, try Moinmoin Steaming Pouch, an alternative to Moinmoin leaves. You will also love that. Here's a blog comparing both methods of Moinmoin preparations. 

Cooking Moin Moin in leaves is a beautiful way to celebrate the Nigerian food culture. The deep flavor of nature from the leaves with the soft, savory pudding, is unmatched. With this step-by-step post, I promise you’ll be wrapping Moin Moin like a pro in no time. Need the best moinmoin recipe? Click here. You can get at all your ingredients and leaves for Moinmoin anywhere in the US and Canada at My Sasun African Market. Start shopping now!