Common Nigerian Foods and their Origins

Food is needed for man’s sustainability and existence. It is therefore important to be aware of both its usefulness and its origins. In Nigeria, there are many foods we claim as our indigenous meals and we are unaware of their origin. Here are a few Nigerian foods and their origins: Jollof Rice Jollof Rice is one meal popular in West African countries, and a cause of supremacy controversies. One of the main Jollof rice rivalries between Nigerian and Ghanaians is whose country’s rice tastes better. Jollof rice for most of its faithful eaters is traced to Sengambian region that was ruled by the Jolof Empire. Fried Rice:

This is a Nigerian party favorite. It is a popular street food in Asia. Small restaurants, street vendors specialize in serving fried rice. There is no contemplating whether or not it is a local dish, Fried rice can be traced to Chinese origin invented sometime within the Sui dynasty(589-618Ad) in the city of Yangzhou in the eastern Jiangsu province. Coconut rice:

To prepare this simple dish, you would have to soak it in coconut milk and the end result can cause you to bite your tongue. It is believed to have its origins in the south Asia and Latin America regions. Potatoes: Popular for both its leaves and tuber, it has been claimed by Nigerians to be a member of staple foods. Potatoes originated from Peru, Southern America, and same with sweet potatoes whose origin is traced back to South America and Central America. Corn Soup: It is locally found among Afemai people in Edo state, locally known as “Omi Ukpopka”, this meal can be traced to Native Americans.