Whether as an ingredient of a chocolate bar or some cookies, or simply eaten by the spoonful, almost everyone loves peanut butter in some way or another, that is why each January 24th the US celebrates National Peanut Butter Day. This date honors the inventor of peanut butter, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, who patented the process in 1895.
The day is an occasion to celebrate one of the most delicious and, at the same time, one of the ingredients of one of America’s favorite quick and easy meals: the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Certainly, peanut butter is a popular and versatile spread that can be enjoyed in many ways. But have you ever tried Haitian peanut butter?
Haitian peanut butter, also known as mamba, is a spicy peanut butter that is a staple in many Haitian homes. It is made with roasted peanuts, peanut oil, salt, and scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, which give it a fiery kick. Mamba is not only delicious and flavourful, but also nutritious, as it provides protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
If you want to celebrate National Peanut Butter Day preparing this Haitian recipe, here are some tips on how to make and enjoy mamba at home.
What You Need to Make Mamba
To make mamba, you will need the following ingredients and tools:
– A food processor, a blender, or a mortar and pestle to grind the peanuts into a smooth paste.
– Roasted and salted peanuts. You can use unsalted peanuts, but you may need to add more salt later.
– Peanut oil. You can also use vegetable oil, but peanut oil will give a richer flavor.
– Salt. You can adjust the amount according to your taste and the saltiness of the peanuts.
– Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper. These are among the hottest peppers in the world, so be careful when handling them and wear gloves to avoid burning your skin or eyes. If you’d rather avoid the preparation of peppers, you can also use a hot sauce made with a blend of peppers and spices.
– Optional ingredients. You can add other ingredients to your mamba, such as honey, garlic, or ginger, to suit your taste.
How to Make Mamba
The process of making mamba is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:
– Put the peanuts in the food processor, blender, or mortar and pestle and grind them until they form a smooth paste. You may need to scrape the sides and add some oil to help the process.
– Transfer the peanut paste to a bowl and add salt and pepper. You can start with a small amount and adjust later. Mix well and taste for seasoning.
– If you are using any optional ingredients, add them now and mix well.
– Transfer the mamba to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Mamba can last for up to two weeks in the fridge, but it may harden over time. To soften it, you can microwave it for a few seconds or add some warm water or oil and stir well.
How to Enjoy Mamba
Mamba is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used to spice up any dish. Here are some ways you can enjoy mamba:
– Spread it on toast, crackers, or fruit for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
– Pair it with jelly, chocolate, or cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
– Use it as a dip for vegetables, chips, or pretzels for a crunchy and spicy treat.
– Use it as a dressing for salads, coleslaw, or pasta for a creamy and zesty twist.
– Use it as a marinade for meats, tofu, or vegetables for a delicious and tender result.
– Use it as a base for sauces, soups, or stews for a rich and hearty flavor.
Mamba is a great way to celebrate National Peanut Butter Day and to experience a bit of Haitian culture and cuisine. It is also a way to support Haitian farmers and children, as there are organizations and social enterprises that partner with organizations in Haiti to create jobs and provide healthy snacks to schools with every jar of mamba sold. So, why not try mamba today and spread some love and impact with your next peanut butter dish?