7 Surprising Nigerian Dishes You Didn't Know Existed In 2024

Nigeria's culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, with a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions spanning across its various regions. While many people are familiar with popular Nigerian dishes like jollof rice, pounded yam, and suya, the country boasts a plethora of lesser-known yet equally delicious dishes. In 2024, Nigerian cuisine continues to evolve, and here are seven surprising dishes that you might not know existed but are definitely worth exploring.

1. Edikang Ikong

Edikang Ikong is a traditional vegetable soup from the Efik and Ibibio people of southeastern Nigeria. This hearty soup is made from a combination of fluted pumpkin leaves (ugu) and waterleaf, along with various meats, fish, and periwinkles. The rich, savory broth is flavored with crayfish, palm oil, and a blend of spices, making it a nutrient-dense and delicious meal. Edikang Ikong is highly valued for its health benefits and is often reserved for special occasions.

2. Nkwobi

Nkwobi is a delicacy from southeastern Nigeria, typically made with cow foot cooked until tender and then mixed with a rich, spicy sauce made from palm oil, potash (kaun), and a blend of spices. The dish is garnished with slices of onions and utazi leaves, giving it a unique flavor profile. Although nkwobi is traditionally enjoyed as a late-night snack or served in bars, it has gained popularity as a sophisticated dish in urban Nigerian restaurants, making it a surprising yet delightful find for many food enthusiasts.

3. Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce

Ofada rice is a locally grown variety of rice from southwest Nigeria, known for its unique aroma and slightly sticky texture. It is often paired with ayamase sauce, also known as ofada sauce or designer stew. This green pepper sauce is made with a blend of green bell peppers, scotch bonnets, onions, locust beans (iru), and assorted meats. The sauce's rich and spicy flavor complements the distinct taste of ofada rice, creating a dish that is both surprising and deeply satisfying.

4. Ukodo (Yam Pepper Soup)

Ukodo is a comforting dish from the Urhobo people of the Niger Delta region. It is essentially a yam pepper soup made with chunks of yam and either catfish, goat meat, or assorted meats. The soup is seasoned with traditional spices like uda (negro pepper), uziza seeds, and ehuru (African nutmeg), giving it a warm, spicy flavor. Ukodo is often enjoyed during the rainy season or as a remedy for cold and flu, making it a surprising and heartwarming dish.

5. Masa

Masa, also known as rice cakes, is a popular street food in northern Nigeria. These fluffy, fermented rice cakes are made from a batter of rice, sugar, yeast, and sometimes millet or maize. Masa is typically fried in a special pan with round indentations, giving it its distinctive shape. It is often served with miyan taushe (pumpkin soup) or a spicy pepper sauce, making it a delightful and surprising breakfast or snack option.

6. Banga Soup

Banga soup is a rich, palm nut soup from the Urhobo and Isoko people of the Niger Delta. The soup is made from palm nut extract, which gives it a deep, earthy flavor and vibrant red color. It is typically cooked with fresh fish, meat, or seafood, and seasoned with traditional spices like beletete, ataiko, and oburunbebe stick. Banga soup is often enjoyed with starch (usinat) or pounded yam, and its unique taste makes it a surprising discovery for those unfamiliar with Niger Delta cuisine.

7. Afang Soup

Afang soup is a traditional dish from the Efik and Ibibio people of southeastern Nigeria. It is made with afang leaves (wild spinach) and waterleaf, combined with various meats, fish, and periwinkles. The soup is cooked with palm oil, crayfish, and a blend of spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. Afang soup is often enjoyed with fufu or pounded yam, and its nutrient-dense ingredients make it both delicious and healthy.

Conclusion

Nigeria's culinary heritage is vast and varied, with many surprising dishes that showcase the country's rich cultural diversity and creativity. From the hearty Edikang Ikong and spicy Nkwobi to the comforting Ukodo and flavorful Banga Soup, these lesser-known Nigerian dishes offer a unique and delightful dining experience. As Nigerian cuisine continues to evolve in 2024, exploring these hidden gems will not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary traditions of Nigeria. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these surprising Nigerian dishes are definitely worth adding to your culinary repertoire