5 Easy Nigerian Recipes for Beginners

Nigerian cuisine is vibrant, flavorful, and packed with diverse dishes that cater to every palate. If you’re new to cooking Nigerian food, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through five simple yet delicious recipes that are perfect for beginners.

1. Jollof Rice

Jollof rice is a staple in Nigerian households and is loved for its rich, tomato-based flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice

• 4 large tomatoes (or canned tomato puree)

• 2 red bell peppers

• 1 onion

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Spices: curry powder, thyme, and seasoning cubes

Steps:

1. Blend tomatoes, peppers, and half an onion into a smooth paste.

2. Heat oil in a pot, add chopped onions, and fry the blended mixture until it thickens.

3. Add spices, seasoning cubes, and stock.

4. Pour in washed rice, reduce the heat, and cover.

5. Cook until the rice absorbs the liquid and is fully cooked.

2. Egusi Soup

Egusi soup, made with ground melon seeds, is a hearty dish often paired with fufu or pounded yam.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ground egusi (melon seeds)

• 2 cups waterleaf or spinach

• 1/2 cup palm oil

• 1 onion

• Spices: crayfish, seasoning cubes, and pepper

• Protein: meat, fish, or stockfish

Steps:

1. Heat palm oil in a pot and sauté chopped onions.

2. Mix ground egusi with water to form a paste, then add it to the pot.

3. Stir until it thickens, then add water or stock to loosen it.

4. Add your pre-cooked protein and spices, and let it simmer.

5. Add the vegetables last, stir, and cook for 5 more minutes.

3. Fried Plantain (Dodo)

A quick and simple side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plantains

• Vegetable oil for frying

• A pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Peel and slice plantains into rounds or strips.

2. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

3. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry plantains until golden brown.

4. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

4. Nigerian Yam Porridge (Asaro)

This comforting dish combines yam with a tomato-based sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 tuber of yam (peeled and diced)

• 4 tomatoes (or canned tomato paste)

• 1 onion

• 1/4 cup palm oil

• Spices: crayfish, pepper, and seasoning cubes

Steps:

1. Blend tomatoes and onions into a smooth paste.

2. Heat palm oil, fry the tomato mixture until thickened, and add spices.

3. Add diced yam and enough water to cover it.

4. Cook until the yam is soft and the sauce thickens.

5. Mash some yam pieces for a creamy texture and stir.

5. Nigerian Puff-Puff

A sweet snack that’s perfect for dessert or a quick treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon yeast

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 cup warm water

• Oil for frying

Steps:

1. Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and nutmeg in a bowl.

2. Gradually add warm water to form a thick batter.

3. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.

4. Heat oil, scoop small portions of batter, and fry until golden brown.

5. Drain on paper towels and enjoy!

Conclusion

Cooking Nigerian dishes doesn’t have to be intimidating. These beginner-friendly recipes are simple, flavorful, and a great introduction to the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria. Which one will you try first? Let us know!