Efa riro, boiled yam, egusi soup, sheppered pie, paella, nshcima, nyama choma, these are just some of the answers I got when I asked 10 diverse individuals what food reminded of their childhood. Across the world, everyone has a special food that takes them down memory lane. From Lusaka to Lagos to London to Santo Domingo and far beyond, food often brings about happy memories.
When I think of my childhood and the food that made up my memories it’s difficult to pinpoint a particular type of food because my food experience has been so varied. Having the experience of living in over 8 African countries and 3 Western countries has allowed me to expand and stretch my pallets and appreciate food from all over the world. While Senegalese food remains my favorite because its what I grew up on at home, I appreciate foods from all over the world.
Every so often I get a craving for food that reminds me of home and thankfully I have found a place called Clay Food and Drinks limited which is located on 20A Babatunde Anjous Drive off Admiralty way in Lekki phase 1. It’s safe to say the Clay Food shop has become a home away from home. Clay Food and Drinks Limited, was founded by Mrs. Hadiza Nyako to promote and create demand for local African superfoods, drinks, and snacks, especially from northern Nigeria and they really live by their objective. You can get anything from freshly made traditional African juices such as Zobbo, Baobab, Fura, Tamarind, Tigernut. I love their drinks because they are home-made and have little to no sugar. My favorite drinks to get are the Zobbo which in Senegal is known as Bissap. Did you know that Zobo is a drink enjoyed through-out West Africa? It’s actually very easy to make at home too. Fura is also a very traditional drink which I love. Fura balls are made from millet flour which has been spiced with ginger, cloves and sometimes, pepper and is complemented by either yogurt or milk. Interestingly enough in Senegal Fura is called Thiakry and is thoroughly enjoyed by many people in Senegal and Gambia.
On this occasion, I ordered one portion of Taushe which is a delicious soup made of savory pumpkin, native to and quite popular with the Hausa and Fulani tribes. It is commonly eaten with swallow, but I had mine with beef and Masa which is a northern staple similar to a pan-fried rice cake, the recipes vary a little across households but the basic premise never changes. Masa is often eaten with suya and traditionally Masa is made into an oval shape. The combination of the taushe, masa, and suya was divine and I was thoroughly satisfied. It was so tasty that I even kept some for the next day. They also sell already cooked and seasoned full chicken which comes in handy after a long day at work, I often just make my own sides and use their chicken for meals.
I recommend Clay Foods for anyone who loves tasty food and natural drinks. If you are not familiar with some of the foods mentioned in the article, I encourage you all to discover Northern Nigerian food at Clay Foods in Lekki. They stock snacks, spices and much more. You can also order for delivery, sit in or take away. The Henna place is also right next door in the same compound, it’s a women’s only traditional spa specializing in Henna, skin and hair care. traditional home incense and much more.
Total
Taushe– N500
5 sticks of suya– N2500
Masa– N800
Zobo– N600
N 4200
Rating
4 stars
