Igbo foods (Ofe–Owerri)

Igbo dishes (Erimeri Ndigbo) 1

 This article is written on request of the dying cultures of the igbo people in Nigeria and in Diaspora. It is coined from Odinala Magazine, an Igbo magazine that promotes the igbo culture, written in both English and Ibo side by side to foster understanding Ibo language. 

Presented here in series are  some igbo delicacies known for their nutrient content and body nourishment and found to be highly medicinal. 

Ofe–Owerri

Ofe–owerri is often referred to as a rich mans soup as it is very rich in ingredients. It is common for igbo people to say ”onye enweghi ego ana eri ofe Owerri” meaning that a poor man cannot eat ofe-Owerri

Ingredients. 

1. Oha leaves- 1 small bundle 

2. Ukazi leaves– 1 small bundle 

3. Palm oil – 2 soup spoonfuls

4. Salt– 2 teaspoonful

5. Pepper– 1 teaspoonful

6. Castor oil spice (ogiri)– 3wraps

7. Water– 2.5litres

8. Meat– 2 kilos

9. Dried fish– 2 medium sizes 

10. Stock fish– 2–3medium sizes

11. Crayfish– a handful

12. Cocoyam- 35–40 pieces of medium sizes

How to prepare Ofe Owerri (for 4–6 people). 

Slice ukazi leaves to choice size. 

Slice oha leaves to blend with the sliced ukazi

Pour some water into a pot and boil

Thoroughly wash meat, stock fish and dried fish in clean water with small salt to remove dirt. 

Add stock fish to the boiling water and allow to boil futher

Add meat and dried fish

Peel the cocoyams and add to boiling mixtures

Add palm oil, crayfish and castor oil (ogiri).

Remove the cocoyams from boiling mixture, pound in a mortar to soft texture and return to pot to continue boiling in the mixture.

Allow mixture to boil thoroughly.

Stir soup thoroughly until well cooked.

Remove pot from heat or fire.

Dont ask me if i've tried! I just saw the article and thought i should share it, hey here an idea, get your girlfriend to try it or your wife, if she doesnt know how to yet! Its really delicious.