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Adowè (Silky Peeled White Bean Puree with Red Palm Oil)
A velvet-smooth puree of skinned white beans crowned with fragrant, onion-infused red palm oil.
The story
Originating among the Fon people of southern Benin, Adowè represents the pinnacle of humble ingredients elevated through meticulous preparation. Traditionally served as a fortifying evening meal, it is enjoyed alongside golden fried plantains (aloco) or toasted cassava semolina (gari). The essential historical technique requires removing every bean skin before boiling, which ensures a pale, featherlight texture impossible to achieve with unpeeled legumes.
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