Watan Dankali

In the Hausa language, "watan dankali" means simply, "bean-sweet potato dish".

2 cups blackeyed peas, rinsed and sorted
1/2 lb. chopped beef (optional)
vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2-4 garlic cloves, minced
1 large tatase (medium hot red pepper), seeded and chopped
2-4 tomatoes, chopped
thyme, curry powder, to taste
4 bouillion cubes
2 medium yellow sweet potatoes, diced

Boil the beans (and beef, if using) together in a pot till the beans are soft.

Heat oil in a large pot. Saute vegetables. Add spices and bouillion cubes, water drained from the cooked beans to cover, and sweet potatotes. Bring to a boil and simmer until the sweet potatoes are soft, about 20 minutes. Add beans and meat and stir. Cook 15 minutes to blend flavors. Serve hot.