The word “fufu” is part of the Twi language, which is widely spoken both in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, and it means “mash” or “mix.” It is mashed or mixed with the use of mortar with a pestle. Fufu became part of the African dish after cassava was introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
The slightly sour, spongy dough is made from pounding the boiled starchy food crops like cassava, yam, and plantains. Countries in Africa have come out with different versions of fufu, such as in the country of Nigeria, Cameroon, Togo, Benin, and Sierra Leone.
Fufu had been the staple food for most parts of the western part of Africa. In fact, Ghana’s Ashanti people proudly muses that “A man has not eaten a day unless he has eaten fufu.” This food is part of their daily menu, and it perfect when paired with native African soups such as nkrakra (light soup), nkate nkwan (groundnut soup), abenkwan (palm nut soup, abun abun (green vegetable soup), and other soups. Eating fufu is eating and savoring the labor of love of the hands that manually made the fufu dough is smooth perfection.
Fufu dough is being done in a traditional way by pounding it with a mortar and pestle, and usually, it is being done by women. The strong pounding being made by the women is the one that breaks the fiber of the starchy food. Gradually add water to the mixture while tossing it, whipping, and turning the mixture until the smoothness of the dough is achieved. The dough is smooth and sticky and will be shaped into a “ball” that appears to be “bake,” but it is not being baked.
Fufu is not just part of a tradition. It is worthy of being part of one’s daily meal, for it is highly packed with nutritional value. Since it is basically from cassava, yam, and other starchy food, it is rich in fiber, potassium, contains vitamin C, Riboflavin, thiamine, and niacin. Eating it may also help reduce inflammation and promotes digestive health.
Craving for mouthwatering African and Nigerian Cuisine in NYC?
If you are looking for delicious and rich Nigerian food in NYC, visit Divine Flavored Catering and try our wide range selection of African cuisine particularly Nigerian food at great prices! We also have menus for events of all sizes from our Mini Catering Menu to our Main Catering Menu. You can also enjoy our Restaurant Menu and Food Truck Menu. If you have any questions please feel free to call us at (718) 451–6330.
Restaurant Location
Divine Flavored Catering
992 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
(718) 451–6330
Food Truck Location
DF Nigerian Food Truck
828 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10017
(718) 451–6330
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