How to Cook Ukwa (African Breadfruit): A Complete Nigerian Recipe Guide
Ukwa, also known as African Breadfruit, is a delicious and highly nutritious delicacy native to the Igbo people of Nigeria. This traditional meal is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Nigerian cuisine. Learning how to cook ukwa properly brings out its soft texture and unique nutty flavor.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to prepare ukwa step-by-step, including different methods, whether you prefer it cooked plain, with palm oil, or as a porridge.
What Is African Breadfruit, or Ukwa?
The African breadfruit tree’s (Treculia africana) seed is known as ukwa. Because of its delicious flavor and high nutritional content, it is a staple dish in Eastern Nigeria. When cooked, it becomes tasty and tender, with a characteristic earthy taste that is frequently compared to rice or beans.
Ingredients for Ukwa Cooking
The following ingredients are needed to make a straightforward and delicious pot of ukwa:
Essential Components:
Two glasses of African breadfruit, or ukwa
Water (enough to cook)
One teaspoon of edible potash (kaun or akanwu) is optional, although it softens the ukwa.
Add salt to taste.
For Porridge Ukwa (optional additions):
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3 tablespoons palm oil
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1 tablespoon crayfish (ground)
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Pepper (fresh or dried)
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1 stock cube (Maggi or Knorr)
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Diced onions
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Dried fish or smoked fish (optional for extra flavor)
How to Cook Ukwa
Step-by-Step
First, wash the Ukwa
To get rid of any chaff or dirt, put the ukwa in a basin and give it a good wash. To separate the lighter chaff that floats on top when water is added, some individuals use a sieve.
Boil the Ukwa in Step Two.
Fill a pot with enough water to cover the clean ukwa, then add the edible potash (if using). The ukwa softens more quickly thanks to the potash. Boil it for 40 to 60 minutes on medium heat, or until it is soft.
Step 3: Season and Drain
Once the ukwa is soft, you can drain excess water (if any). Add salt and stir gently. If you prefer plain ukwa, it’s ready to eat at this stage — often enjoyed with coconut slices or palm wine.
Step 4: Make Ukwa Porridge (Optional)
To make ukwa porridge, add palm oil, crayfish, pepper, onions, seasoning cube, and fish. Stir well and allow it to simmer for another 10–15 minutes until all ingredients blend perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot! Ukwa can be enjoyed alone as a main dish or with fried plantains, roasted fish, or avocado on the side.
Advantages of Ukwa for Health
Ukwa is very nutritious in addition to being delicious:
High in protein: Excellent for repairing and growing the body
High fiber content helps with digestion and prolongs feelings of fullness
Rich in minerals and vitamins, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium
Low fat: Ideal for nutritious diets
Common Ukwa Dish Variations
Simple and light, plain boiled ukwa is sometimes served with coconut.
Ukwa Porridge: A rich, savory dish made with fish, pepper, and palm oil.
In some regions of Eastern Nigeria, a traditional mixture known as ukwa and corn mix is consumed.