Cuisine : Mokshi Alesi - How to prepare this traditional Surinami dish

 

Moksi Alesi is a traditional Surinamese mixed rice dish . Below is how to prepare this popular dish :

**Ingredients:**

- 2 cups of rice

- 1 lb mixed meats (chicken, pork, salted or smoked meat), cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 cup okra, sliced

- 1 cup yardlong beans, chopped

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- Salt to taste

- 4 cups water (for cooking rice)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Rice:**

   - Rinse the rice thoroughly.

   - In a rice cooker or pot, cook the rice with 4 cups of water until it's fluffy and fully cooked.

2. **Prepare the Meats:**

   - In a large pot or deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

   - Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and aromatic.

3. **Cook the Meats:**

   - Add the mixed meats to the pot, stirring occasionally until they are browned.

4. **Seasoning:**

   - Season the meat with ground black pepper, ground cumin, dried thyme, and soy sauce.

   - Adjust salt according to taste.

5. **Add Vegetables:**

   - Introduce the sliced okra and chopped yardlong beans to the pot, stirring to combine with the seasoned meats.

6. **Simmer:**

   - Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat, covered, until the meats are tender and the vegetables are cooked.

7. **Combine with Rice:**

   - Once the meat and vegetable mixture is ready, combine it with the cooked rice in the pot. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

8. **Serve:**

   - Serve Moksi Alesi hot, with additional soy sauce on the side if desired.

Moksi Alesi is a delightful dish that brings together various flavors and textures. Enjoy exploring the diverse culinary heritage of Suriname!