Stockfish (Panla, Okporoko) is white fish dried by cold air and wind. It is most often cod, although pollock, haddock, ling and tusk can be used. A highly prized delicacy in Nigerian cuisine, it is an introduced, imported food item – all the way from Norway! A friend asked about the etmology of the name…
Sweet Potato
The flesh of sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas) ranges in colour from white through to orange and red – outside of Nigeria, the orange-fleshed ones are most readily available. However, it is possible to find the white-fleshed variety in ethnic shops. I prefer the latter as they are not as sweet and are firmer. They are…
Uda
Also known as Enge (Xylopia aethipica). Clusters of small, twisted bean-like pods contain small kidney-shaped seeds. Fresh uda (pictured) is used whole. To use dried uda (more readily available), toast the pods on an open flame and discard the bitter seeds before grinding the pods for use. Use sparingly (or not at all) as it…
Ugu
Ugu, (Ugwu, Fluted Pumpkin Leaf, Telfairia occidentals), is a climbing plant with large dark green leaves and is probably the most commonly consumed leafy vegetable in Nigeria. It is used in many soups and pottages and is best bought fresh. Pick the leaves off the long stems, wash thoroughly and finely slice or chop as required. It will keep…
Utazi
Utazi (Gongronema latifolium). Very popular among the Igbos, this slightly bitter herb is used sparingly in peppersoup, Nsala and other dishes such as Nkwobi and Isi Ewu (goat head casserole). Reconstitute dried leaves by adding to hot water. Leave to stand until the leaves are soft and pliable and the colour changes from dark to…
Uyayak
Uyayak (Aridan Fruit, Tetrapleura tetraptera). Rich in some macro-elements such as potassium, iron, magnesium and phosphorus, the fruits consist of four wings – two of which are hard and woody; whilst the other two are hollow and filled with an aromatic pulp. This pulp is often ground for use in peppersoups, whilst the seeds are…
Uziza
Uziza Leaves (Cubeb Pepper, Piper guineense). Also known as ‘Hot Leaf’, both the seeds and leaves are used in cooking. The former is similar in taste to black peppercorns and is ground before use in soups and stews. The mildly bitter but spicy and aromatic leaves are fairly tough and should be finely shredded or chopped…
Yam
Native to Africa, yam (Dioscorea spp.), the king of crops, is probably the most widely eaten staple in Nigeria. Amongst the Igbos, the ‘New Yam Festival’ is held annually in various towns and villages to celebrate the harvest of the new yam. There many varieties of yam in Nigeria – white yam, yellow yam, water…