Okele
Lafun
Okele, also known as Lafun, is a staple Nigerian 'swallow' made from fermented cassava flour. It has a smooth, slightly chewy texture and a neutral flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of rich and flavorful Nigerian soups.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400g Lafun (fermented cassava flour)(Ensure it's the fermented variety for authentic flavor and texture. Available in African or international grocery stores.)
- 1 liter (approximately 4 cups) Water(Start with 1 liter and adjust as needed for desired consistency.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium-sized pot, bring the 1 liter of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 2
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the lafun (cassava flour) to the boiling water, a little at a time, while stirring continuously with a sturdy wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula. This gradual addition and constant stirring are crucial to prevent lumps from forming.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Continue to stir vigorously and consistently. As the flour incorporates, the mixture will thicken. Use the back of your spoon to break up any small lumps. The dough will start to pull away from the sides of the pot, indicating it's cooking through.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Keep stirring and 'folding' the dough for about 5 minutes, ensuring it's smooth, thick, and has a slightly elastic, dough-like consistency. It should be firm enough to hold its shape but still pliable.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the pot from the heat. Using your wet hands (to prevent sticking) or the wooden spoon, shape the okele into a smooth, round ball. Serve immediately with your favorite Nigerian soup, such as Egusi, Okra, or Banga soup.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to lump-free okele is to add the cassava flour gradually while stirring constantly.
- ✓A sturdy wooden spoon is essential for effectively stirring and mashing the thick dough.
- ✓The final consistency should be smooth, firm, and slightly stretchy, similar to a very thick dough.
- ✓If the okele is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of hot water and stir vigorously to loosen it.
- ✓If it's too thin, continue cooking and stirring over low heat for a few more minutes until it thickens.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a thicker okele, use slightly less water or add a little more cassava flour towards the end of cooking.
- For a thinner, softer okele, use a bit more water or cook for a shorter duration.