Image source: flickr
Ogoni is an ethnic group located in River state, Nigeria. They are commonly known for fishing and subsistence agricultural production which reflects to their culinary tradition.
In fact, Ogoni cuisine is delicious and nutritious as it contains all the nutrients in the food groups, making it one of the healthiest among other ethnic groups in Nigeria.
If you’re looking for a tribe that eat more of fresh foods is Ogoni people. Their food ingredients are mainly sourced within the clan.
There are different traditional food in Ogoni land which linked to their diverse cultural heritage. For examples banga soup, Ofe Owerri, Bole, abala among others.
This article will explore 9 Ogoni traditional food & Nutritional Fact
1. Banga soup
Image source; flickr
Banga soup Is a traditional food in Ogoni Kingdom. It is also called ofe Akwu. Oil use in preparing ofe Akwu is an extract of palm fruit. To make it more appetising and nutritious, fish, meat, vegetables, spices are added to it. Banga soup is served with Fufu, Garri even pounded yam.
Nutritional Fact of Banga soup
Carb, protein, dietary fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Thiamin, vitamin B3, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, antioxidant
2. Bole
Bole is a popular food in Ogoni land. It is prepared from roasting plantain and fish. These are good sources of protein, energy, vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidant
3. Native Rice
Native rice is a traditional cuisine in Ogoni clan. Their meals are made up of locally sourced products. For example, they make use of unprocessed rice rather than polished rice which has lost vital nutrients our body needs for proper functions. Unprocessed rice has all the nutrients human body needs to be healthy.
Nutritional Fact of Native rice
Thiamin, riboflavin, folate, vitamin C, dietary fiber, calcium, iron, carbohydrates
4. Pepper soup
Pepper soup can be prepared with fish or meat depending on your choice. Fish or meat is cooked with different spices and herbs that play a pivotal role in the body. Ginger, garlic and onions serve as antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Yam porridge
In Ogoni land, you can also call it as Asaro. Yam porridge is among the Ogoni traditional food. As the name sounds, Yam porridge is made from yam, palm oil, and spices.
Nutritional Fact of yam porridge
Complex carbohydrates, thiamin, riboflavin, fat, vitamin A, vitamin E, antioxidant, calcium
6. Abala
Abala is a native food of Ogoni Kingdom. It is served mostly during festive and occasions. Abala is made from unripe plantain. It is a good source of dietary fiber, iron, vitamin A and potassium. Abala aids digestion due to the fiber content.
7. Ukwa (African Breadfruit)
This is a traditional food you get in Ogoni, though it is eaten in other parts of Nigeria.
It is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Ukwa is often prepared as a porridge and can be enjoyed as a main dish food. It provides energy, aids digestion, and promotes bowel regularity.
8. Ofe Owerri
Ofe Owerri is a vegetable soup enjoyed by the Ogoni people. It is prepared with a variety of local vegetables such as pumpkin leaves, bitter leaf, waterleaf, and other ingredients like stockfish, cow meat, and crayfish.
9. Ikuru
Ikuru is a traditional food primarily eating in Ogoni land. It is nutritious, as ikuru is made from plantain catfish. Fish is known for building and repairing tissue, supporting muscles health, and providing satisfaction.
Nutritional Fact of ikuru
Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, iron, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, calcium.
10 health benefits of edible Mushroom & Uses
Conclusion
Ogoni traditional food is delicious and contains and contains a lot of nutrients.
9 Ogoni traditional food & Nutritional Fact includes Abala, Bole, Banga soup, pepper soup, ikuru, ukwa, ofe Owerri, native Rice among others.
