Ekpang Nkukwo is a traditional Nigerian dish native to the Ibibios ethnic group of Akwa Ibom state.
Akwa Ibom, a State in South-Southern Nigeria is well known for its fantastic delicacies.
These delicacies are not only delicious, they also have some very vital health benefits in the body.
One of Akwa Ibom indigenous meals is Ekpang Nkukwo.
For decades, Ekpang Nkukwo has been a prescribed delicacy for nursing mothers. It provides them with the desired nutrients needed for full recovery after childbirth.
But what are those things we use to prepare this delicious delicacy ?
Ekpang Nkukwo Ingredients
Though there’s no specific list of proteins for its preparation, it does have some specific ingredients which cannot be excluded, they include;
- Ikpong ( Cocoyam)
- Ebré ( Water Yam)
- Nkukwo ( Cocoyam leaves)
- Mfi (Periwinkle)
- Palm Oil
- Any fish or meat of your choice.
How to Prepare
Though tedious, its mode of preparation is very unique and special.
- After the purchasing the ingredients listed above, the first step is to peel off the skin of both cocoyam and water yams.
- Next, grate the water yam and cocoyam. This is usually done with a locally made grater called Okwok because the slippery nature of the yams makes it difficult to achieve the right consistency when a blender is used.
- After grating, mix together for moisture.
- Next, add the mixture in little quantities into cocoyam leaves and close tightly to prevent spillage.
- In a large pot, add your washed periwinkle
- Next, add the Nkukwo (cocoyam leaves with yam mixture.)
- A pot of boiling water is usually poured on the folded ekpang nkukwo to enable the mixture stick properly to the leaves.
- Next add your spices: pepper, bouillon cubes, salt, crayfish and choice protein.
- The final ingredient to be applied is usually the palm oil to help sustain the red colour of the meal.
Ekpang Nkukwo can be eaten for pleasure as well as for satisfaction.
But what the body derives from this delicacy is what makes it special.
Health Benefits of Ekpang Nkukwo
• Reduces cholesterol
• Helps control blood sugar levels
• Improves heart health
• Reduces inflammation
• Great source of carbohydrate
• Promotes good digestion
• Contains potassium and calcium
All these are achieved once you take in this delicacy which is well served in Akwa Ibom State, in a satisfactory measure.
