Ukwa
Ukwa is a traditional Igbo meal prepared from African breadfruit seeds. It may be cooked plain or enriched with palm oil and seasonings. Ukwa is commonly cooked with potash, bitter leaf, dry fish, pepper, and spices. It is considered a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially protein.
Ingredients
- 4 cups African breadfruit seeds
- 2 medium pieces of dry fish
- 2 small stock cubes
- 7g edible potash
- Palm oil (sufficient for coloring)
- Pepper and Salt (to taste)
- Seasoning cubes
- 5-6 fresh bitter leaves
- Water
Method
- Wash the African breadfruit seeds thoroughly and place them in a sizable pot.
- Pour in enough water to fully cover the seeds.
- Add the edible potash along with the dry fish (or stockfish, if available). Cover the pot.
- Boil the mixture for about 30 to 45 minutes until the seeds become soft.
- Stir in the palm oil and seasonings.
- Continue cooking on medium heat until the palm oil changes color from red to yellow, which should take about five minutes.
- Add the chopped bitter leaves to the pot.
- Cover and let it simmer until the leaves wilt but remain green, indicating that the Ukwa is ready to serve.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Additional dry fish can be included for added flavor.
- Some recipes may also incorporate yams or maize.