Eba
Eba is a staple Nigerian dish made from fermented cassava flakes (garri) cooked into a stiff dough. It's a 'swallow' food, meaning it's typically eaten by hand, rolled into a ball, and dipped into various rich Nigerian soups like Egusi, Ogbono, or Efo Riro.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300g Garri (fermented cassava flakes)(Choose fine-grained garri for a smoother texture. Yellow garri is often preferred for its slightly richer flavor and color, but white garri is also common.)
- 400ml Water(This is a starting point; you may need slightly more or less depending on the type and absorbency of your garri.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Boil the water: In a medium saucepan, bring the 400ml of water to a rolling boil over high heat. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes. You'll see vigorous bubbles and steam.
⏱️ 5-7 min - 2
Add garri and stir: Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Immediately pour the 300g of garri into the boiling water. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula to begin stirring vigorously. The mixture will be very watery at first.
⏱️ 2-3 min - 3
Cook and thicken: Continue to stir and fold the mixture constantly. The garri will quickly absorb the water and begin to thicken, transforming into a stiff, dough-like consistency. Keep stirring, scraping the bottom and sides of the pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is a smooth, slightly elastic dough that pulls away from the sides of the pot.
⏱️ 3-5 min - 4
Serve: Once the eba has reached your desired consistency (smooth, firm, and stretchy), remove it from the heat. Shape it into a mound or individual balls using the spoon or slightly oiled hands. Serve immediately with your favorite Nigerian soup, such as Egusi, Ogbono, or Efo Riro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Work quickly once the garri is added to prevent lumps.
- ✓The consistency should be firm but pliable and slightly stretchy, similar to mashed potatoes or a very thick dough.
- ✓Adjust water quantity as needed: If the eba is too stiff, add a tablespoon or two of hot water and stir vigorously. If it's too soft, add a little more garri and continue stirring until thickened.
- ✓Clean your wooden spoon frequently by scraping off excess eba to make stirring easier.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Yellow Garri: Use yellow garri for a distinct color and flavor.
- White Garri: Use white garri for a neutral base.
- Spiced Garri: Some variations involve adding a pinch of chili powder or other spices to the garri before cooking.