By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
When the cold sets in—whether it’s during the harmattan or rainy season—comfort becomes a top priority.
For many Nigerians, food is not just nourishment but also warmth for the soul. Thankfully, Nigerian cuisine is rich in hearty, spicy dishes that can help chase away the chills.
Here are five Nigerian foods that are perfect for cold weather:
1. Pepper Soup
Arguably the most popular cold-weather dish in Nigeria, pepper soup is a hot, spicy broth made with your choice of protein—goat meat, catfish, chicken, or assorted meat.
What makes it perfect for chilly days is its peppery heat and aromatic blend of spices like uda, ehuru, and scent leaves. It warms the throat and clears the sinuses.
2. Egusi Soup with Pounded Yam
A thick, rich melon seed soup, Egusi is perfect for staying full and warm. When paired with hot pounded yam or any swallow of choice, it becomes a comforting and satisfying meal.
The oil, proteins, and leafy vegetables in the soup provide energy and warmth.
3. Yam Porridge (Asaro)
Yam porridge is a one-pot meal made with soft yam chunks cooked in a pepper-based sauce with palm oil, crayfish, and sometimes vegetables.
It’s both filling and warming, and the spices give it a gentle kick—ideal for cold mornings or rainy evenings.
4. Akara and Pap (or Custard)
Akara (bean cakes) served with hot pap or custard is a breakfast favorite that doubles as comfort food during cold mornings.
The crispy exterior of akara combined with the warmth of pap makes this duo a cozy, affordable option.
5. Oha Soup
This eastern Nigerian delicacy is made with tender Oha leaves and a rich mix of meats and thickening agents like cocoyam. Served hot with fufu, it’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out.
Conclusion
In cold weather, Nigerian dishes do more than just fill the stomach—they soothe, warm, and comfort. So next time the temperature drops, let your kitchen come alive with the aroma of these satisfying meals.
