UNIQUE NIGERIAN MEALS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR WEDDING MENU

In recent times, reports have shown that over 1 million weddings have taken place in Nigeria since 2020. This statistic reflects our love for celebrations, and in Nigerian weddings, food plays a vital role. Nigerians have a penchant for diverse delicacies and enjoy indulging in good food. Therefore, excellent catering services and a delectable menu are essential when planning any occasion.

With over 200 tribes and a wide array of ethnic dishes, Nigeria is blessed with a rich culinary heritage that can make any menu mouth-watering and appealing to guests. It's an opportunity to break away from the traditional small chops, fried rice, and jollof rice meal plan and prepare something daring and exciting. To get you started on this exciting adventure, we have curated an enticing selection of wedding meals that will leave guests salivating and craving more.

BOLE (ROASTED PLANTAIN) AND SAUCE

Bole is a popular street food in Nigeria, typically served with groundnuts. However, it can be elevated by pairing it with a savory sauce. Originating from the southern region of Nigeria, Bole has gained widespread fame and is now enjoyed all over the country. While it may not be a conventional wedding meal, incorporating finger foods like Bole into the menu can add a unique and flavorful twist. Simply slather some oil on unripe plantains, grill them, and serve with a variety of dipping options like roasted fish, pepper sauce, or vegetables. This delicious combination will elevate the dining experience.

ROASTED YAM AND SAUCE

Similar to other popular delicacies, roasted yam has become a widespread favorite across Nigeria, although it is indigenous to the eastern part of the country. This street food can be paired with an assortment of options, including pepper stew, fish sauce, peppered goat meat (asun), and even palm oil for a fully native experience. Roasted yam adds a delightful touch to the menu and can be accompanied by palm wine to enhance the overall flavor.

EWA AGOYIN AND BREAD

Originating from the western part of Nigeria, Ewa Agoyin is a must-have on any wedding menu. While it is traditionally enjoyed in Yoruba homes, this delicacy has gained popularity among people from various tribes, particularly in Lagos. Ewa Agoyin is made by boiling beans until it becomes mushy and then preparing a spicy pepper and onion sauce using palm oil. It pairs exceptionally well with bread, offering a delightful combination of flavors. Fried plantains (dodo) and fried yam are also suitable accompaniments, but bread remains the preferred and most delicious option. Including Ewa Agoyin and bread in your menu will leave guests with a memorable and flavorsome experience.

MASSA AND GOAT MEAT

Massa, also known as rice cake, is a dish native to the northern part of Nigeria, particularly enjoyed by the Hausa tribe. It serves as both a main meal and a dessert, as it can be eaten with sugar sprinkled on top. Massa is best served with a side of peppered goat meat or pepper soup. Although it may not be as widely known, it offers a unique and delicious first course that introduces guests to new and exciting flavors. Including Massa and goat meat in the menu will captivate taste buds and create a fascinating culinary experience.

NATIVE RICE (IWUK EDESI)

No Nigerian wedding is complete without rice, but instead of the usual fried or jollof rice, consider preparing native rice. This dish closely resembles jollof rice but has a distinct flavor profile. It can be paired with various proteins such as fish, crabs, and assorted meat. Native rice is a palm oil-based cuisine that incorporates locally sourced ingredients, including pepper, tomatoes, scent leaves, crayfish, and locust beans. The combination of these spices creates a unique and aromatic dish that will leave guests craving for more. By including native rice in your menu, you can infuse a sense of culture and spice into your meal plan.

COW FOOT DELICACY (NKWOBI)

This delicacy is a meat lover's dream. Originating from the eastern part of Nigeria, Nkwobi is enjoyed by people from all regions. It is typically served on a wooden plate and is best enjoyed when hot. Nkwobi is made with bleached palm oil and potash to create a thick sauce. Other ingredients like utazi leaves, ehuru seeds, and curry leaves are added to enhance the flavor. However, it is the cow foot itself that gives the dish its distinctive and delicious taste, captivating guests' palates.

As you celebrate the union of the couple, let the menu reflect their unity by incorporating an all-inclusive selection of authentic traditional meals. There are many Nigerian delicacies that have yet to gain widespread recognition, and there's no better way to create a buzz at your wedding than by making the menu the center of attention. From spicy and flavorful dishes to sweet and sugary treats, embracing the authenticity of diverse cuisines adds a special touch to weddings. So, instead of opting for a predictable and trendy meal plan, choose a unique and distinctive menu that Inawo has provided to bring originality and uniqueness to your wedding celebration.

As the couple's unity and love are celebrated, let their culinary journey mirror this beautiful bond with an all-inclusive and authentic traditional feast. Beyond the usual fare, lies a world of undiscovered cuisines waiting to dazzle guests and steal the spotlight at the wedding festivities. Step away from the conventional and mundane, and instead, embrace a menu curated with love and thoughtfulness by Inawo, making the celebration an unforgettable experience.

Let the culinary symphony take center stage, weaving a tapestry of originality and uniqueness that perfectly complements the couple's journey of love and togetherness. It's time to elevate the wedding menu from mere sustenance to an extraordinary celebration of flavors, uniting hearts and taste buds alike.