Food security, essential environmental services, social cohesion, and the economics of most African countries are all dependent on healthy and productive soils. Africa has some of the most fertile lands on the planet, and out of this fertility emanates culture-rich foods, herbs, and natural spices which are enjoyed all over the world.

In this article, we’ll learn a lot about natural African spices, where they are found, their individual health benefits, and the numerous ways we can incorporate them into our daily meals.

Throughout history, the usage of herbs and spices has been extremely essential. Many were revered for their therapeutic benefits long before they were used in cooking. Many of these have since been proven by modern science to have significant health advantages.

The first few spices that come to mind when someone thinks of spices may differ based on what they eat. For some, all they need is pepper, cinnamon, and a variety of dried herbs. Curry powder, cumin seeds, cloves, and fennel seeds may be used by others.

Herbaceous plants produce tiny aromatic fruits and oil-bearing seeds known as spice seeds. Herbs are aromatic leaves from plants like nettles, mint, rosemary, and thyme that can be used fresh or dried.

Spices, spice seeds, and herbs are used as food additives to add flavor, aroma, and piquancy. They may have minimal nutritional value in the modest amounts required to produce culinary meals, but they increase appetite, add zest to food, and enhance flavors.

5 natural African spices and how to incorporate them into your daily meal:

Alligator pepper

Alligator pepper, or Aframomum melegueta, is a popular herbaceous perennial plant native to West Africa, with populations in Nigeria, Cameroon, Liberia, Cote D’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Togo, Gambia, and Ghana. It is a close relative of grains of paradise, obtained from the closely related species, Aframomum melegueta or “grains of paradise”. Unlike grains of paradise, which are generally sold as only the seeds of the plant, alligator pepper is sold as the entire pod containing the seeds.

Alligator peppers thrive on a fertile, well-drained soil blend, such as compost, manure, and peat moss. To increase drainage, sand can be added to the topsoil. Alligator pepper plants cultivated in pots can also be grown in regular, well-drained potting soil.

During the harvesting season,  the pods are collected from the plants, and the seeds are removed from the pulp by cracking them open and smacking them out with hands or the side of a knife. The seeds are then placed on leaves and left out to dry in the sun. Once completely dried, they are tightly wrapped inside the leaves.

Nutritional values of scent leaf

The seeds of this African since containing high concentrations of the following:

• calcium
• potassium
• iron
• vitamin C
• thiamine
• riboflavin
• niacin

Medicinal benefits of Alligator pepper

Apart from being an African spice, alligator pepper comes with a lot of medicinal benefits.

• It has antimicrobial properties: The antibacterial effects of the seed extract are attributed to the presence of phenolic chemicals, which are commonly employed as disinfectants. According to research, Aframomum melegueta extract has a broad spectrum inhibitory impact on bacteria including Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumonia.

• This African spice has aphrodisiac properties which makes it a good sex stimulant and maintains high stamina, especially in women as it works on their libido and makes them more sensitive to touch due to increased stimulation of nerve endings during sexual intercourse.
• Its leaves are used in preparing herbal medicine that helps treat malaria and also works well in relieving digestive problems such as bloating and preventing constipation.
• Effective in treating wounds and burns: This African spice has a high fiber content, which promotes tissue regeneration and wound healing. In addition to fiber, it has a significant level of tannin, which treats burns, heals wounds, and reduces inflammation by easing the pain of inflamed mucous membranes. Ulcers, diarrhea, stomach pains, and intestinal worms are among conditions that can be treated with its herb.

• Helpful in weight loss: Thermogenesis, or the process of producing heat in warm-blooded animals, is boosted by this spice. In men, greater heat activates brown tissue adipose tissue, which increases energy consumption. As a result of the interaction of these mechanisms, weight loss occurs.

Contraindications of Alligator pepper

Ingestion of large quantities of Alligator pepper poses a health risk to women in their first trimester of pregnancy.

African Blue Basil

African blue basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum × basilicum ‘Dark Opal’) is a hybrid basil variety, a cross between camphor basil and dark opal basil and is mostly found in African and Asia. It is one of a few types of basil that are perennial. African blue basil plants are sterile, unable to produce seeds of their own, and can only be propagated by cuttings

All portions of the blossom, leaves, and stems are edible; while the camphor aroma may be too strong for some, the herb is said to make a pleasant pesto with a “rich, mellow flavor” and may be used as a flavoring in soups and salads, especially those with tomato, green beans, chicken, and other vegetables.

Nutritional values

• Energy
• Carbohydrate
• Food fiber
• Fat
• Protein
• Water vitamin A
• Thiamin
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Vitamin B6
• Folic acid
• Vitamin C
• Colin
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Calcium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Phosphor
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Zinc

Health benefits of African blue basil

• Anti-aging properties: this African spice is rich in antioxidants that prevent premature aging as well as help fight diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Basil’s powerful anti-inflammatory characteristics make it a potential remedy for a wide range of ailments and conditions. The anti-inflammatory characteristics of essential oils such as eugenol, citronellol, and linalool aid to reduce inflammation. Basil’s anti-inflammatory characteristics may assist to reduce the risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel illness. Consumption of basil could also soothe a fever, headache, sore throat, cold, cough, flu.
• Boosts immunity: This African spice is very rich in Vitamin C which is an antioxidant and helps boost the immune system, making you less susceptible to disease.
• Great for the skin: The oil of basil helps to cleanse the skin from the inside out. This wonderful face cleanser is ideal for oily skin. It also aids in the removal of clogged-pore dirt and pollutants. Basil leaves, sandalwood paste, and rose water are mixed together to make a paste. Allow 20 minutes for the paste to rest on your face. Rinse off using cold water. The strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of basil would help prevent the formation of acne.
• Cancer drugs: Monoterpene content in this bacillus can affect the development of cancer. Even consuming African blue basil on a regular basis can cure some types of cancer. Not only heal, but basil can also prevent it.
• Helps fight depression: Basil essential oil may also aid in the treatment of sadness and anxiety. The plant is said to boost neurotransmitters that control the hormones that cause happiness and vigor. Basil is thought to be a potent adaptogen and anti-stress agent. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects also assist with stress management.

Side effects of African blue basil

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: In dietary proportions, basil is probably safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Larger medicinal doses, on the other hand, are possibly unsafe. Basil includes estragole, a substance that has been shown to induce liver cancer in experimental animals. Онлайн-казино привлекает большое количество пользователей, многие из них продолжают играть и не останавливаются. Поэтому часто возникает вопрос, почему происходит данное явление. В-первую очередь, пользователи продолжают играть в Top online casino России из-за возможности развлечься и приятно провести время. После тяжелого трудового дня или недели, люди могут получить удовольствие от приятной музыки, дизайна и геймплея. Также пользователи продолжают играть в онлайн казино из-за возможности выиграть определенную сумму денег. Азарт и другие положительные эмоции могут провоцировать продолжать играть.

Scent Leaf

Nchanwu or Effirin are two common names for Scent Leaf. OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM is its botanical name. It also goes by a variety of names in different dialects. The plant is normally a perennial homegrown shrub, although it can be found in the wild, and is used mainly as a spice for cooking delicacies due to its aromatic taste. This plant’s blooms and leaves are high in essential oils, adding a fragrant flavor to soups, salads, and other regional foods. Scent leaf is also an aromatic tropical plant, which leaves are mostly used for cooking. The extracts of this African spice are also commonly used as traditional medicine in treating illnesses like fever, cough, body pain, and so on.

Nutritional facts of scent leaf

The leaves of this African spice are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils such as:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B
• Calcium
• Vitamin K
•  Potassium
• Dietary fiber
• Protein
• Water
•  Magnesium
•  Iron
•  Zinc
•  Phosphorus

The essential oil of scent leaf is high in eugenol, thymol, camphor, pinene, limonene, and other chemical compounds that are responsible for many of their therapeutic properties.

Health benefits of scent leaf

• Helps in eye care: Vitamin A is abundant in scent leaf, which helps to maintain strong vision. The retina of the eyes requires vitamin A in the form of retinal, which interacts with the protein opsin to generate rhodopsin, the light-absorbing molecule required for both scotopic (low-light) and color vision. Vitamin A deficiency can harm the eyes, resulting in xerophthalmia (a medical disorder in which the eye fails to produce tears) and night blindness, both of which can be avoided by eating enough fragrance leaves.
• Scent leaf and menstruation: This African spice has also been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties akin to drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen but is milder to the inner linings of the stomach. Extract from scent leaves is useful for healing menstrual pain, stomach ache, earache, and fever.
• Lowers blood sugar: This plant can also help you avoid cancer and lower your cholesterol. Scent leaf may lower blood sugar levels and protect the pancreas cells that create insulin from harm in diabetes mellitus, particularly non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NID diabetes).
• Reduce Nicotine: Benefits of Scent leaves the latter are to help eliminate and repair the damage caused by smoking. Smokers must consume Scent leaves. Other Scent benefits can also reduce stress, prevent diabetes and kidney stone disease. Wind laxative (carminative) contains a mint-like Scent.
• Largely improves heart function: Scent leaves are high in calcium and magnesium, which both assist to lower bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and improving blood circulation. Adults’ risk of Coronary Artery Disease is increased by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterols, therefore consuming fragrance leaves can help to minimize this ever-present risk. Heart and artery issues caused by clogged arteries are almost entirely avoidable if sufficient amounts of scent leaves are consumed.

Side effects of scent leaf

• It could interfere with blood-thinning medications: Vitamin K is abundant in scent leaf leaves, which aids in blood clotting. Blood-thinning medicines like warfarin may be affected by high intakes. If you’re on a blood thinner, make sure you’re getting enough vitamin K every day so your doctor can keep track of your dosage. This may be made more difficult if you consume items that contain a lot of Scent leaves.
• It is contraindicated in patients with low blood pressure: This African spice is known to lower blood pressure. This poses a threat to individuals diagnosed with low blood pressure as it could further lower it.

Cumin

Image from Wikipedia

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is an Apiaceae family flowering plant. Its seeds, which are all contained within a dried fruit, are used whole or crushed in the cuisines of many countries. Cumin lends its distinctive flavor to chili, tamales, and various Indian curries. Its flavor has been described as earthy, nutty, spicy, and warm.

The seeds of this African spice are hand-harvested from an annual plant and are little, boat-shaped seeds that look like caraway seeds. Cumin is most commonly found in a brownish-yellow color, but black cumin, green cumin, and white cumin can also be seen.

Cumin is available as both whole seeds and ground powder and both are used in recipes, and are also very helpful in traditional medicine. This historical African spice that has been used for so long is used all over Africa. Traditions have held great importance and belief that during marriage ceremonies if the couples carry cumin seeds with them their marriage will be blissful. Though it is a great spice to add to your African meal.

Nutritional value

Cumin seed may be a good source of

• iron
• manganese
• magnesium,
• calcium
• phosphorus.

Other vitamins present in this African spice might include

• thiamine
• riboflavin
• niacin
• vitamin A, C, E, K, and vitamin B6.

Health benefits of cumin

• Aids in digestion: This African spice has been demonstrated in studies to aid with a variety of digestive disorders. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms as tummy pain, bloating, and the urgent need to go to the bathroom were greatly reduced by cumin extract in one study. This African spice has long been used as a traditional cure for diarrhea, and some preliminary research has found substantial evidence to back it up.
• Rich in antioxidants: Cumin seeds may contain a variety of plant components known for their potential health advantages, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and others. Free radicals create oxidative stress, which can lead to heart blockages, diabetes, and other disorders. These antioxidants may help limit the harm done to the body by free radicals.
• Might be effective in weight control: Over time, the effects of this African spice can work together with a healthy diet and exercise to decrease fat deposits and reduce inflammation in your body. Cumin can help you burn calories more quickly by speeding up your metabolism and boosting your digestion. You will automatically lose weight if you have a healthy digestive system and higher metabolism.
• Aids in skincare: Cumin’s bactericidal and antifungal qualities may also help protect your skin from fungal and microbial infections. It may also help to reduce wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin, which are all symptoms of premature aging. The presence of vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant and combats free radicals, may be responsible for this.
• Increases lactation: Cumin, which is high in iron, may be good for breastfeeding moms, pregnant women, and women who are menstruating. Furthermore, due to the presence of thymol, it is supposed to assist relaxation and boost milk secretion in nursing women.
• Reduces risk of diabetes: Cumin stimulates insulin production in the body, which helps keep the blood sugar levels in check.

The side effects of cumin

• This African spice is known to have narcotic qualities, therefore use caution when using it. The seeds of this African spice can cause mental fogginess, tiredness, and nausea if consumed in large quantities.
• Cumin seeds, when consumed in high quantities, can help to reduce blood sugar levels in the body. This may have an impact if you are scheduled for surgery, as blood sugar levels must be maintained. To control your blood sugar level during and after surgery, your doctor may advise you to stop eating the seeds of this African spice at least two weeks before the surgery.
• The carminative effect of this African spice may cause excessive belching.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is the seed or ground spice of several species of the genus Myristica. Myristica fragrans is a dark-leaved evergreen tree cultivated for two spices derived from its fruit: nutmeg, from its seed, and mace, from the seed covering. It is also a commercial source of essential oils and nutmeg butter.

This African spice comes from the seed of the evergreen nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans). This tree, interestingly, is a host to one more incredibly potent and unique spice, mace, which is the dried reddish seed covering. Nutmeg has a distinctly strong fragrance. It has a nutty flavor and it is slightly sweet in taste.

The essential oil obtained by steam distillation of ground nutmeg is used in the perfumery and pharmaceutical industries. Nutmeg butter is obtained from the nut by expression. It is semisolid, reddish-brown in color, and has the taste and smell of nutmeg itself.

Trimyristin, which makes up about 75% of nutmeg butter by weight, can be converted to myristic acid, a 14-carbon fatty acid that can be used as a substitute for cocoa butter, blended with other fats like cottonseed oil or palm oil, and utilized as an industrial lubricant.

Nutritional value of nutmeg

This African spice is rich in fiber, which helps keep the digestive system healthy and prevents blood sugar from spiking.

It’s also a source of:

•  Vitamin A
•  Vitamin C
•  Vitamin E
•  Manganese
•  Magnesium
•  Copper
•  Phosphorous
•  Zinc
•  Iron

Health benefits of nutmeg

• Promotes digestion:  this African spice is well-known for its therapeutic qualities. This African spice has been used to cure indigestion and stomach ulcers, among other things. The nutmeg seed’s distinct fragrance is responsible for its therapeutic qualities.
• Rich in antioxidants: Nutmeg is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect against the signs of aging and serious conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and liver disease.
• Used in skincare: This African spice has long been used in herbal and traditional medicine to improve the appearance and health of the skin. It’s usually used as a paste with water or even honey, which is equally beneficial to the skin.
• Dental hygiene: Several dental products use nutmeg oil. The spice possesses antibacterial qualities that have been shown to be very efficient against germs that cause disease and foul breath in the mouth.

Side effects of nutmeg

• Hallucinations and other mental adverse effects have been related to long-term usage of this African spice at doses of 120 mg or more per day. Nutmeg users have reported nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, and hallucinations after taking higher amounts.

Well there you have it, 5 African spices you should incorporate into your daily meal. They all have nutrients and are extremely beneficial to health. These African spices will allow you to select from a variety of flavors and spices accessible on the African continent that you should include in your dishes. You don’t know what you’re missing out on if you haven’t tried African spices. Whether you’re a vegan or not, Africa has a plethora of spices to choose from.

Before you get into the article, you should ask yourself this one question, “What do I know about baking?” Then you are ready to get into this article.

What is baking?

Baking is a cooking method that involves the use of dry heat, this is mostly done by placing it in an oven.

The degree of dryness is completely dependent on the amount of moisture produced from the food being baked.

Image from Pinterest.com

There are some examples of baked foods like;

• Cake
• Meat pie
• Cookies
• Biscuit

 There are several ways food can be prepared and eaten, and there are only a few you would be familiar with, but it is important you know other means of cooking asides from your regular method.

There are different methods of cooking, it is only right you know the different types of cooking so you would be able to try them out at your time and see what works best for you.

Different Methods Of Cooking

• Poaching
• Stewing
• Braising
• Frying
• Boiling

Amongst all these methods of coking, did you know have good information about baking and the benefits of baked goods? No? Not to worry, that is why the African food network is here for you.

You are going to get familiar with the health benefits of baked food, the types of baked food, and the disadvantages of baked food.

So get ready to be blown away with African baked food and the wonder of baking. Before we get right into it, what do you know about baking?

What Do You Know About Baked Food?

Baked goods can easily be described as foods that are made from batter or dough, then prepared by baking.

Baking is a method of cooking that makes use of dry heat, usually prolonged, the heating is also normally done in an oven.

Baking with an oven is not the only means of baking, there are also some other means like; The use of hot stones and the use of hot ashes.

There is so much other food that can be baked, but the most popular baked food in the world is bread.

There are so many baked goods out here to try, especially in Africa where there are thousands of food, you are going to get a view of the different kinds of baked goods but before we get into the types of baked food, you should know a little bit about what you’re getting into right?

What are the advantages of baked food?

• You Would Be Getting So Much More Nutrients

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There are some essential nutrients the body needs to be able to function properly, and most of these nutrients can be gotten from eating different types of food and drinking water or some healthy drinks.

But did you know that you can also get so much more nutrients from eating baked food? Get ready to be excited.

Vitamins and minerals are water-soluble hence the nutrients and vitamins can be lost through boiling, some of the nutrients of food are reduced due to excessive cooking.

Baking makes use of dry heat, and the process of using dry heat ensures that a good amount of the nutrients would be retained. Which leaves you and your body happy because you would be getting so much more nutrients that would have been lost through boiling.

When the vitamins are retained due to the dry heat, a lot of the nutrients that are essential for your body would be retained like; Vitamin C and Vitamin B. These are nutrients that your body needs to function properly.

Another plus to baking is that it makes use of little oil, which also means that baking allows the preservation of fat-soluble vitamins.

Some of these fat-soluble vitamins are;

• Vitamin K
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E

Unlike frying, baking would keep in these nutrients and have you nourished and healthy, but frying would make these nutrients “fall” into the oil, hence reducing the nutrient content of your meal.

With this one advantage you should already know by now that baked food is the right choice for you, or do you need some more convincing? That is what we are here for, to convince you to try new things that would be great for you and your health.

Let’s look into other advantages of baked food.

• Great Look, Great Taste, You Would Want More (Increased Appetite)

Did you know that the better the look of a dish, the more your appetite is increased?

What other food is more appealing than baked food? The scent, the look, and the taste would have your appetite increased and ready to eat.

Your senses are stimulated when you see a meal that is appealing which allows your appetite to increase, hence enabling you at more and take in more nutrients (but not too much).

• Baked Foods Are Known To Be Low In Fat

Baked goods are known to be healthy not just cause of the obvious nutrients that they possess, they are also known for their low-fat content.

Unlike fried foods, baked foods don’t require so much oil during the baking process, and due to the closed environment where the baking is usually done, there would be no heat escape.

All these are processes done to ensure your baked food is delicious enough for you, not just delicious enough but healthy.

The heat used in the baking process helps to burn natural fat inside the food, which then releases the fat before the food is fully cooked.

It’s so fun baking because if you don’t want to use oil, you can always use Apple sauce instead of cooking oil to prepare your baked food.

Now, what other reason are you looking for to start trying out new baked food? Stand up and get baking now.

• Baked Food Helps In Weight Loss Management

Deep-fried food causes absorption of oil into the food, hence during ingestion, the amount of fat in the food is increased, which leads to the increase in calorific and fat content in the body.

This fact alone causes weight gain and obesity in the body and being overweight is not healthy or good for you, that is why baked foods are a better choice for you.

Due to the requirement of little or no oil during the baking process of baked foods, the natural fat in the food is released to the environment due to the dry heat.

Now that you know the good sides of baked food, you should know that whatever has an advantage has its disadvantages, that is why it is important we eat in moderation, for your health.

It is okay to enjoy some baked food now and then but do you remember that saying about too much if everything not being good?

You are going to know the good and the bad of baked food so you would be able to make good choices about your healthy living and your choice of food.

The disadvantages are not to discourage you from having some baked food, after all the advantages are also there to encourage you to try out new things, and you should go ahead with it.

Now, let’s see the disadvantages of baked food.

What are the disadvantages of baked foods?

Just as we said earlier, there are some pretty good enough reasons why you should try new methods of Cooking, a good enough reason would be because it would expand your knowledge on food and help your cooking skills.

• Baking Can Be Time Consuming

To be able to bake is to have some time to spare because the processes involved in baking can be time-consuming.

Everyone loves a dish you can make in a few minutes or an hour but for baking, it would take up some time. That’s what you get for wanting a tasty treat, you’re going to have to be patient.

What is that saying about good things not coming easy? Of course, baked food is a good thing and it is going to take you some time.

From the making of the batter and the heating of the oven, there are some technical processes involved in this process, but not to worry, the African food network would give you the best recipes that would save you some time and give you an amazing taste.

• Possibility Of Trans Fat In Your Baked Food

Having a baked snack outside can be really fun, taking a walk past a really nice bakery, perceiving the aroma of bread from across the street. Yes, it is a thrill, but it can be dangerous in some cases.

Manufacturers of some baked foods, add some content of trans fat to the baked good.

Trans fat is known to improve the shelf life of these baked goods and they are also cost-effective, which makes it easily accessible.

But what you don’t know is that this trans fat that is used in the production of some of these baked foods is bad for your health, because trans fat is known to increase the levels of unhealthy cholesterol and lower the levels of healthy cholesterol.

This fact alone would lead to the risk of some severe diseases like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and so many other dangerous diseases.

Don’t panic, what can you do about this?

Bake your pastries; baking your own pastries gives you the confidence of knowing the content in your baked food.

This reason alone is why you are encouraged to always try out new things, new food, new cooking methods and so many more.

You don’t need to go out to try new things, you can always get something fun and new here at Afrifoodnetwork.com. Giving you the best recipes, so many delicious dishes that would be fun and exciting, and of course healthy because you are the one in control of what goes into your body system.

Now you know the advantages of baked foods, with hopes that you have been convinced to try this new method of cooking, you would need to know some of the baked food you can try.

You don’t need to feel left out, there is always a recipe here for you to play around with.

Don’t you want to know the ingredients used in the preparation of your favorite baked food? Of course, you do, so here you go;

What are the ingredients used for the preparation of baked foods?

• Spices
• Dairy
• Flour
• Eggs
• Yeast
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Sugar
• Salt
• Honey (optional)
• Oil (optional)
• Flavorings

Now that you know the ingredients used to prepare your favorite baked food, what is stopping you from having some right now?

You should have some kind of insight into the types of Baked food there is, so, here you go;

Examples of baked food you would love

• Bread
• Biscuits
• Buns
• Bagels
• Cookies
• Pies
• Muffins
• Cakes
• Doughnuts
• Cinnamon rolls
• Tortillas
• Cheesecake

This article is not talking about just baked foods, we are here to discuss baked foods and fried foods, comparing the two methods of cooking to know which is the healthier option, the different types of food under these two major methods of cooking, and generally learning something fun and new.

Let’s talk about fried food

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As earlier stated there are different methods of cooking that are fun and exciting to try, another fun new method of cooking is the frying method.

What do you know about fried food? Let’s start with the basics, what is frying?

Frying is a method of cooking that involves the heating up of oil or another fat and then cooking food in hot oil.

This method of cooking is very similar to another method of cooking that also involves the frying of food, known as Sautéing.

The difference between these two methods of cooking is very simple; Frying involves the use of spatula or tongs to turn the food being fried, but sautéing involves a technique called “tossing in the pan”. It involves the tossing of the food that is being sautéed.

Back to Fried Food

Have you ever heard someone say fried food is tasty but unhealthy? That is probably right and we would show you why we think it is right.

With everything that has a disadvantage, there is an advantage to it, and this tasty and fun method of cooking is also on this list of things that have its good and bad sides.

You are going to see why it is nice to try something new, although, frying is one of the most popular methods of cooking, still doesn’t stop you from trying to be creative with it.

Before you “experiment” with this method of cooking, you should know the advantages and disadvantages of fried food.

Let’s get into it!

What are the advantages of fried food?

• Frying is known to be one of the fastest methods of cooking

Just like we said earlier, baking is known to be time-consuming, and no one wants to spend so much time on a dish when you can get some as tasty, but even faster.

Fried food is known to be one of the fastest methods of cooking, this is because, the process of heat transfer that occurs in frying, which includes the movement of heat from one medium (hot liquid oil) to another (solid food) is faster than the heated air process also known as solid and the oven.

• You Would Be Sure of Getting the Best Flavors from Your Fried Food

Imagine walking past the kitchen and you perceive a freshly fried chicken or fish or even chips, you know how your senses would go up for a moment and you begin to want that fried food.

Who doesn’t love a little bit of fried food every here and there? Taking a bite from your favorite fried food would have your mind blown away because of the flavor that would be bursting out of this food into your mouth, leaving you smiling and happy.

This description alone is enough reason for people to love fried food more than any other kind of food, which is okay because it tastes amazing.

• Your Fried Food Is Going to be Tender

Have you ever noticed the tenderness and softness in between fried food? That soft part of the fried food is enough reason to try it.

You would be happy and satisfied with the juice and flavor that would burst out of the fried food.

These are good enough reasons why you should enjoy fried food every once in a while, but remember there are some bad sides to this method of cooking which you are going to have to get familiar with.

Let’s get into the disadvantages of fried food.

What are the disadvantages of fried food?

It is only right you are adequately informed on the risks of any kind of food, this would help you in ways like knowing how to prevent most of these effects and controlling them. Just making yourself and your body happy.

You would get to know the disadvantages of fried food, just like you got to know the advantages of fried food.

Let Us Get into The Disadvantages of Fried Food

• You Might Be at Risk of Obesity

Fried food is known to contain fats and oils which can lead to increased levels of cholesterol, and this is known to lead to several diseases and obesity.

This reason is why it is important to eat in moderation and not too much because certain levels and amounts of food can be harmful to the human body.

According to WebMD; “Fried foods may influence the risk of diseases through several key risk factors; Obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.”

• You Might Be at Risk of High Caloric Content

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The frying process is known to reduce some important nutrients in the food, and due to the frying of the food with hot oil, the calories in the oil go to the food. This often leads to an increase in the caloric content of fried food.

Fried Food Is Known to Increase Your Chances of Some Diseases. Making use of hydrogenated oil is unhealthy, especially when reused, (this is very common with fast foods).

The hydrogenated oil breaks down with every frying session, this causes more oil to be absorbed into the food. These changes in the nutrients or composition of fried food often put you at risk of some diseases.

These disadvantages are not to scare you; They are to let you know the things you put in your body system.

It is to help you understand the power of moderation and learn not to overdo things, so you can always have your fried food, as long as you enjoy your food is safe and healthy quantities.

Remember that saying about too much of everything not being good? Well, the same also goes for your food.

Types of fried food

• Puff Puff
• Plantain
• Fried eggs
• Doughnuts
• Koeksister
• Fried yam
• Fried chicken
• Chips
• Chin-chin
• Fried meat

You now have enough information about the differences between baked food and fried food. Food is a very important aspect of our lives but enjoyment is another important part of human life.

What other way to enjoy your life if you are not out there trying out new experiences and being creative?

Baked foods have their advantages and disadvantages, also does fried food, that is why you are going to have to learn more about moderation.

Enjoy life in moderation so that you would be able to preserve your health, keeping it healthy and strong, ready for another fun and exciting experience.

If you have ha ay off these foods, from the different methods of cooking, let us know how it was and what you loved most about it.

Don’t forget to have an amazing day, drink a lot of water and wear a huge smile on your face.

What other way to get quality, time-efficient, cost-effective lunch all in one package when you’re out for work if not to grab a meal at a popular street food joint?

Street foods have been saving lives for ages. They are a major source of food consumption for lower and middle-class income earners. Street foods have become more popular in recent times to the extent that more people are becoming obsessed and attached.

In this article, you’ll get to learn about African street foods, how safe they are, what makes them so popular and most importantly the top African Street foods you will find on many African Streets roadsides.

What are Street Foods?

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Street Foods are ready to eat foods and beverages prepared and/or sold by vendors or hawkers especially in the streets and other similar places.

Street foods are easily affordable and provide an avenue to access highly nutritious and quick meals to many busy and sometimes low-income consumers. However, how nutritious and safe a street food is depends on how well a consumer can select a seller and combine his meals.

Aside from the fact that they are relatively cheap and easily affordable they are also tasty and offer a variety of food. What this means is that opportunities to taste various kinds of food at a cheaper rate exist unlike what you get at a high-class restaurant.

Street foods are usually made of the staple foods common to the local people and served in various forms. It is also served as a combination of those staple food with foods such as stews, and other spices. Fishes, meat and other cereals are also prepared in various forms and sold.

Why Are Street Foods Important?

Street foods are important for several reasons, some of which includes the following;

• They are a major source of income for millions of people with little or no education and skills. The reason is that it is highly cheap to set up a street food business than a polished restaurant. So this contributes to the economic importance of many developing countries and other nations at large.
• Street foods enhance social life. Street food joints are usually filled with a good amount of people. Some persons with a drink in one hand, their food in the other hand gisting and laughing with their neighbours.
• Street foods are a way to manage and prevent the increase of ulcers among people. Yes, it is a medium to help busy business people, students easily find something good to eat for lunch during break time or after work.
• Street foods contribute to the economy of the nation. Just as initially mentioned, it is a major source of income for most people thereby providing employment for a greater part of the nation and reducing poverty and criminal activities.
• People who cannot afford much can eat good food and can choose from a wide variety of food to fit their taste buds.

Are Street Foods Safe?

Food-borne diseases commonly detected among persons that consume street foods include cholera, food poisoning, typhoid, etc. However, if the buyer is careful in selecting a street food vendor, this can be avoided.

Asides from what has been mentioned above, street foods are safe to be consumed. This is because the food is prepared right in front of you and you get to see how the vendor handles the food. Whether he is intentional about cleanliness/neatness. This means you get to choose the vendor that meets your eye and catches your fancy. If it was in the restaurants, you’d never know what happens in the backyard.

Why are Street Foods Popular?

Street foods are so popular for several reasons which also make up for their characteristics. Some of them include;

• Authenticity: Street foods are known for their authenticity. To a traveller, it is easier for them to get an experience of the local cuisine from street foods. In many areas, the specific kinds of foods they sell on the streets are particular to the area. Most of them help to preserve the food culture of the local people by using recipes possibly handed over to them from the previous generation.
• They are also popular due to the nature of the business. It has a more personal approach to serving customers than a restaurant business. This is so because most times, the person serving you is the owner of the business and would want to make sure you are satisfied with what you are getting.
• Another reason street food are so popular is because of the feelings attached to it. The restaurant is more of a private affair while street foods have a social feel attached to them. Both are okay but then it would be fun to eat in the not so common way alongside other persons.
• It is cheap, yummy and has less preparatory time. Street foods are no doubt very tasty and also take less time to make. You don’t have to wait hours for it to get done, or have your order delivered to your doorstep. The most important is its cost. It is easily affordable which is what makes it more popular.
• Another feature that makes it popular is its convenience. It’s easy to open a street food business than a restaurant. In most cities, the cost of opening a restaurant is so high that only people with the money open it and not just people with the skill. Street food business makes it easy for people with quality culinary skills to express their creativity and at the same time earn a cool amount of money.

What street foods are popular in Africa?

Here is a list of the 15 most popular African Street foods;

1. Mahjouba

2. Akara(Bean cake)

3. Bole

4. Abacha

5. Vetkoek

6. Nyama Choma

7. Kebda Eskandarani(Alexandrian Liver)

8. Kushari

9. Brik

10. Ewa Agoyin and Agege Bread

11. Roasted or Boiled Corn

12. Atieke

13. Wanke Rice and Fish

14. Potato Bhajia

15. Moi Moi

The above-listed foods are just a few out of the numerous available African street food. Each of these dishes will be singly discussed to give you an idea of what it is made of and what nutrients you are likely to get out of them.

Mahjouba

Mahjouba is a pancake common to the people of Algeria and is one of the most popular street foods in the country. It can be garnished with harissa sauce on the side. Harissa is a North African Chili Paste without which Majhouba is also delicious. Mahjouba is like a pancake made of semolina with a filling that consists of onion and tomatoes. It is very easy to mix the dough while the complex part of it is in shaping the pancake.

Mahjouba is a healthy meal because its constituents include natural ingredients that are highly nutritious, tomatoes being one of them. Just in case you’d like to try this at home, below is a recipe you could always use.

• Firstly ensure that you have, your semolina, tomatoes, onions, salt and pepper to taste, vegetable oil, water, etc. And your harissa to serve.
• To make your filling, heat your vegetable oil in a large pan, add your onion and other seasonings that you may have. Then allow to cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes while stirring until the onion becomes soft. After this, add your tomatoes and cook for some time, 10-15 minutes. Then you can bring it down and divide it into several tablespoonfuls. Allow it to cool while you prepare the dough.
• To make the dough, mix the semolina with salt, add water and knead for about 10 minutes then cover for at least 15-20 minutes. For the same number of fillings, also divide your dough into the same quantity.
• To assemble it, in a non-stick pan, oil it lightly and heat Over medium heat. Flatten and place one piece of the dough on the pan, also place one tablespoonful of the filling onto the dough and fold. Then cook both sides until you notice a slightly golden colour.

Akara(Bean Cake)

Akara is a popular delicacy among Nigerians. It is made from grounded beans mixed with onions, pepper and other spices as desired. It is usually deep-fried and can be taken with Agege bread. To prepare Akara, most people suggest that peeled brown beans should be used. Akara and bread is a very popular combination and is also highly nutritious. Akara itself is usually light and contains a lot of protein. Combining it with bread makes it a very nutritious meal and perfect African street food.

Bole

Bole is a popular Nigerian street food common to the people in the South and Eastern part of the country. Most especially the city of Portharcourt. It is made of roasted plantain and fish, some persons prefer to use roasted yam instead.

However, just as expected, there would always be several tweaks to food to serve different palettes. Some persons add potatoes, and vegetables like utazi leaf to enhance the taste. Just to emphasize more on the tastiness of this dish, a popular food festival called bole festival is being held in Portharcourt, once every year.

It is a festival that combines food, fun and culture where food lovers, entrepreneurs, cultural enthusiasts come together to network and also connect with old and new friends. At the festival different creative ways of preparing Bole is also highlighted. This festival has created a lot of awareness for Portharcourt city in Rivers state being the home of Bole.

Bole is also a healthy dish. Plantain, its major constituent, provides starch and energy to the body. It also contains fibre and a host of vitamins like Vitamin A, C, B-complex and folic acid.

Yam is a major source of complex carbohydrates and energy. It also helps in the development of healthy skin and hair. Fish also is a common source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. The method of cooking which is roasting is good as it preserves the essential food nutrients.

Abacha

Abacha is also known as African Salad and is popular among the South-Eastern and South-South part of Nigeria. The core ingredient of Abacha is dried shredded cassava. It is then prepared using potash, onions, sliced utazi, ugba, pepper, salt, etc. Some persons also add garden egg and garden egg leaf to suit different taste buds.

Abacha also has various health benefits like protection of bones from damage and contributing to stronger bones. It also aids bowel movement and enables the circulation of blood. It is also proven to prevent heart diseases and cancer due to some important minerals it contains.

Meanwhile, ugba, crayfish and other protein sources used to prepare this delicious meal also contain the same amount of protein benefits common to it. The garden egg leaves used in preparing the salad are rich in calcium and ascorbic acid. Abacha vendors usually prepare the sauce made with potash differently.

They also slice onions, vegetables like garden egg and utazi and keep them separately. This is so that they can easily mix it with the already softened Abacha according to the specifics of the consumer.

Check out this delicious Abacha recipe: Click this link to view.

Vetkoek

Vetkoek is a very tasty meal popular among South Africans. Vetkoeks means ‘Fat Cake’ and it is made from a yeast dough filled with fruit jam, curry, or cheese. The dough is usually covered after mixing and allowed to rest for some minutes so that it can rise before it is deep-fried. major constituent includes salt, yeast and flour.

It can be served with minced meat. Vetkoeks contain calories and several vitamins. While taking Vetkoeks there’s a need to watch the quantity you are taking as too many calories can be bad for your health.

Here is a delicious and easy recipe to prepare Vetkoek: Click this link to view.

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma is popular street food in Kenya. In the Swahili language, Nyama Choma simply means barbecued meat. The meat can be goat or beef roasted and served throughout the country along the streets. Nyama Choma can be served with Ugali or taken with beer.

Nyama is also very nutritious, the meat being highly proteinous and the cooking method being one of the best as it helps to conserve the nutrients. In the preparation of Nyama Choma, goat meat or beef is seasoned with enough ingredients and roasted over open fires or charcoal fire.

Check out this quick and easy Nyama Choma recipe: Click this link to view.

Kebda Eskandarani(Alexandrian Liver)

This dish is common to the Alexandrian people of Egypt. It can be found in many street food joints. The alexandrian liver is a speciality made of beef liver seasoned and fried with spicy ingredients such as cumin, garlic, chilli peppers, cardamon, etc. It can be served alone or alongside tahini dip in sandwiches. It can also be accompanied by warm rice or the most popular pita bread.

Alexandrian liver contains vitamins, proteins and fat. Other nutritional constituents of the meal include; potassium, carbohydrate, sodium, iron, cholesterol and dietary fibre.

To prepare this dish, the liver is sliced into pieces and kept aside while the paste of onions, cumin, garlic, etc are prepared. Then the liver is mixed with the paste and allowed to sit for 15 minutes before frying. Lime juice is added while it is being fried. Fry for about 15 minutes and your delicious Kebda Eskandarani is ready to be served.

Kushari

Kushari is a popular street food common to the Egyptians. The dish dates back to the olden days around the 1800s when families would have leftovers of pantries at the end of the month. So they’d throw it all in together to make a good meal. It has become quite popular in recent times. The major combination of Kushari is rice, tomatoes, pasta, beans(lentils and chickpeas).

Also, this dish can be a bit different depending on the choice, it can be made spicier or not, chickpeas can be used or not. If you do not have any leftovers and you’re cooking Kushari from the start, it’s going to be a little bit of work, however, if you already have rice, pasta, then all you have to cook is the sauce and lentils. Kushari is one very nutritious meal you’d be glad to have, containing proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates and energy, etc.

Brik

Brik is a popular North Africam Street food originally eaten in the Ottoman empire where it is called breek. Greek is a savoury triangular-shaped deep-fried pastry with a filling that is made of chopped onions, tuna, harissa, ground meat, egg, etc.

The most common form of brik is the egg recipe, a whole egg with other ingredients is used to fill the dough. The ingredients for making brik include eggs, chopped parsley, cheese, potatoes(boiled and mashed), salt to taste, etc. Brik is also common in Algeria and Libya but is known as Boreeka.

Ewa Agoyin and Agege Bread

Ewa Agoyin and Agege bread is a popular Street food in Nigeria particular to Lagosians. It is simply beans cooked very soft, mashed to a paste and served with pepper sauce. It is taken alongside Agege bread. Agege bread is popular in Lagos, given its name due to the street where it was made.

Agege is an area that used to have a large concentration of bakers, hence the name of the bread. Anyone who ever lived in Lagos must be accustomed to this dish even if they don’t eat it. However, ewa agoyin found its way to Nigeria from Togo.

To emphasize the nutritional benefits of this meal would be unnecessary, the beans alone is a mega source of protein. With carbohydrates and vitamins added to it.

Wanke Rice and Fish

Wanke rice and fish is a Ghana recipe that is also highly popular in Nigeria and Benin. It is made with rice and beans and fried fish. Most unmarried men stop by the roadside to buy this dish after work. Also, most families prefer to buy this and stock up than to prepare it themselves usually because of the time it takes to prepare it.

As initially mentioned it is originally a Ghanaian recipe and is prepared using black-eyed peas with a touch of millet leaves(waakye).

Atieke

Atieke is an Ivorian dish made of fermented ground cassava roots. It is traditionally prepared by women and can be bought at the local markets. Atieke is prepared by adding tomatoes, onions, fried fish or grilled chicken. It is also eaten by people of all ages at any desirable time.

Atieke is nicknamed “couscous of Ivory Coast”. Atieke is also popular in Ghana and some parts of Africa, it is called Acheke and can be taken with smoked fish and stew. Atieke contains several good nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and vitamin C. Vitamin C of course prevents scurvy.

Moi Moi

Moi Moi is a popular street food popular among Nigerians. It is a bean pudding made from grounded beans mixed with pepper, crayfish, onion and other ingredients added to suit different tastes.

It is sold on the streets by hawkers and fast food joints and can be taken along with Jollof rice. For variety’s sake, most people use either fish or eggs to make their delicious Moi Moi. It can be taken alone as a breakfast or together with pap. Some add things like chopped liver, corned beef, timed sardines to enrich the dish.

Moi Moi has great health benefits such as promoting easy bowel movement and possessing antioxidant properties. Moi Moi also contributes to weight loss and helps diabetic patients.

Here is an easy Moi Moi recipe: Click this link to view the recipe.

Roasted or Boiled Corn

Corn is grown in most countries including South America and Europe. However, it is highly popular in African countries. Roasted or boiled corn can be taken with roasted pear, coconut or even palm kernel, which is also sold alongside the corn.

Corn is a tasty dish, and over time, there have been several tweaks as to the method of preparation. Some roast it together with the husk leaves. Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, fibre, protein, potassium, and vitamin C.

Here are the health benefits of eating corn: Click this link to view.

Potato Bhajia

This is a popular Kenyan street food also known as Aloo Pakodi Bhajia. Just like most Kenyan dishes, potato Bhajia has an Asian origin and was introduced by Indians who came to settle in the country.

Bhajia is made of sliced potatoes seasoned with spices such as turmeric, cumin, etc before they are deep-fried. Potatoes are a good source of energy and potato Bhajia is one of the street foods you should try the next time you visit Kenya.

Conclusion

Most of the street foods mentioned above can pass for a balanced diet if not that the proportion has to be taken into consideration. But then, what it offers is an opportunity to take most of these important nutrients into the body added to the fact that you also get to enjoy a premium taste that would pamper your tastebuds.