A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Local Cuisines in Abuja In 2022 – Abuja is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of great places to get a taste of the local fare. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full-fledged dining experience, here are some of the best places to get your fix of Abuja’s notorious “bushmeat.” Check out our last article here.
Bushmeat is a term typically used to refer to game meat, and it’s a staple of Abuja cuisine. While African bushmeat dishes can be found all over the continent, Abuja is particularly famous for its rich and succulent versions. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one of these iconic local dishes?
1. A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Local Cuisines in Abuja In 2022 – Suya
Suya is a type of skewered meat that is popular all over West Africa. It’s typically made with beef, but in Abuja, you’ll often find it made with goat or chicken. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled over an open flame. It’s usually served with onions, tomatoes, and peanuts, and it’s best eaten wrapped in newspaper or foil. Trust me, it’s delicious.
2. Jollof Rice
Jollof rice is a Nigerian dish that consists of rice cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It’s flavored with onions, peppers, and ginger, and it’s often cooked with chicken or fish. Jollof rice is a staple of Abuja cuisine, and you’ll find it on the menu at most restaurants in the city.
3. Moi Moi
Moi moi is a steamed pudding made from black-eyed peas or beans. It’s typically served as a side dish, but in Abuja, it’s often eaten as a main course. Moi moi is usually flavored with palm oil, onion, pepper, and seasonings like curry powder or thyme. And it’s best eaten hot out of the steamer.
4. A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Local Cuisines in Abuja In 2022 – Nkwobi
Nkwobi is a dish made from cow feet that have been slow-cooked until they’re incredibly tender. Nkwobi is a variation of the dish that includes tripe (cow stomach). Both dishes are braised in a palm oil-based stew until they’re falling-apart tender. They’re typically served with Ugali (a type of cornmeal mush) or rice.
5. Akpu/Ofe Akwu
Akpu (also known as Ofe Okwu) is another popular local dish made from cow foot… but don’t let that deter you! This soup/stew is packed full of flavor thanks to the addition of smoked crayfish, chili peppers, palm oil, and seasonings like thyme and bay leaves. Akpu is usually served with Ugali or Fufu (a type of mashed cassava), but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a soup starter.
Conclusion
Abuja offers visitors an incredible array of culinary delights to choose from—so what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring! And if you’re feeling particularly brave, why not try one (or all) of these iconic local dishes? Just be sure to wash down with plenty of chilled water or soda—you’re going to need it.
Have you been to Abuja? What are your favorite local dishes? Share in the comments below and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more informative travel articles.