(1) UKWA (BREADFRUIT)
Ukwa is not just food; it’s an experience. This delicious, starchy fruit is cooked and served with a variety of ingredients like palm oil, spices, and sometimes meat. The soft texture and mild flavor make it a favorite among many. It’s a perfect comfort food for a good meal, often enjoyed with fish or goat meat.
(2) ABACHA
(AFRICAN SALAD)
Abacha is a simple yet tasty dish made from dried shredded cassava, which is mixed with spices, palm oil, and various toppings like fish, ugba (oil bean), and sometimes ground pepper. It’s crunchy, spicy, and incredibly refreshing, especially for a light lunch or snack.
(3) OFE ONUGBU (BITTERLEAF SOUP)
Ofe Onugbu is a beloved Igbo soup made with bitterleaf, which gives it its unique, slightly bitter taste. The soup is usually rich in flavor, combining meats, fish, and sometimes snails, and is traditionally served with fufu, pounded yam, or other swallows. It’s a real treat for those who love savory, flavorful dishes.
(4) OHA SOUP
Another favorite in Igbo households, Oha soup is made from the leaves of the Oha tree, which give the soup a distinct, flavorful taste. The soup is thickened with cocoyam and is typically served with fufu or any other swallow of choice. It’s packed with meat, fish, and a variety of spices that give it a warm, satisfying flavor.
(5) OFE NSALA
(WHITE SOUP)
Ofe Nsala is a rich and light soup often made with fresh catfish and flavored with spices like utazi. Unlike other Igbo soups, it’s not made with palm oil, giving it a lighter, clearer stock. It’s often paired with pounded yam or fufu, and it’s said to have medicinal qualities, especially for new mothers.
(6) OFE OWERRI
Ofe Owerri is a hearty and flavorful soup from Imo State, typically made with a variety of meats and fish, along with thickening agents like cocoyam. The soup is rich in flavor, and when served with pounded yam or another swallow, it’s a filling and satisfying meal.
(7)_OKRA SOUP
Okra soup is another Igbo classic, known for its slimy texture (which is loved by many) and vibrant green color. It’s usually made with a combination of meat, fish, and sometimes snails, and is enjoyed with swallows like pounded yam or fufu. The okra gives it a unique feel, and the soup is packed with vitamins.
(8) NKWOBI
AND PALM WINE
Nkwobi is a delicious dish made from cow feet cooked in a spicy sauce with palm oil, giving it a deep, savory flavor. It’s usually served as an appetizer or side dish, paired with a glass of refreshing palm wine, making it the perfect combination for social gatherings or casual hangouts.
(9) AKIDI
(BLACK BEANS)
Akidi is a simple, nutritious dish made from black beans, often cooked with spices and sometimes enjoyed with palm oil. It’s a popular comfort food, served in different variations depending on the region, and it’s packed with protein and fiber—great for a healthy meal.
(10) UNA
(THREE-LEAF YAM)
UNA, ALSO KNOWN AS THREE-leaf yam, is a type of yam dish that is enjoyed by many. The yam is cooked with different vegetables and seasonings, giving it a rich, earthy taste. It’s often served as a side dish or with any of the soups, making it a versatile and delicious food.
From the soothing warmth of Ofe Nsala to the crunchy delight of Abacha, Igbo cuisine offers a wide array of flavors and textures that celebrate the rich heritage of the Igbo people. So next time you find yourself craving something new, why not try one of these Igbo delights? It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
–Chinagorom Asomugha.
