Chef Spotlight: Shalom Okeke

We're spotlighting our top Africooks of the month and we're super excited to feature the amazing Shalom Okeke, aka Sobecooks! We've noticed your dedication and consistency in the community. Keep up the fantastic work!

AFN Tell us about yourself!

Shalom Okeke My name is Shalom Sobechi Okeke, I'm an experienced chef and entrepreneur based in Lagos, Nigeria. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language and Literature from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra state. Although I had always enjoyed cooking from a young age, I initially pursued a career in digital marketing after graduating. It was not until later that my passion for cooking and food blogging became a primary focus. In 2022, I launched my food blogging journey, where I showcased her talent for creating diverse recipes and dishes. This quickly became my main professional pursuit as I explored the culinary arts both online and offline. I began selling my recipes, food bowls, and food trays.

AFN Why do you cook?

Shalom Okeke I cook because I have a deep, lifelong passion for food and the joy it can bring to people. From a young age, I have found immense satisfaction in creating delicious dishes and seeing the delight on the faces of those who enjoy them. Cooking allows me to express my creativity, experiment with flavors, and share my love of good food with others.

AFN What is your favorite memory in the kitchen?

Shalom Okeke One of my most cherished kitchen memories is the first time I hosted a dinner party for my friends and family. I spent weeks meticulously planning the menu, sourcing the freshest ingredients, and perfecting each recipe. When my guests arrived and tasted the dishes, their reactions of pure delight and satisfaction made all the hard work worth it. It was at that moment that I knew I had found my true calling as a chef.

AFN What is your biggest cooking fail?

Shalom Okeke Early on in my cooking journey, I attempted to make puff puff for the first time. Unfortunately, it was unsuccessful and resulted in an unappealing dish. I was devastated at the time, but I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of technique and following recipes precisely. That experience taught me to approach new challenges with humility and a willingness to learn from my mistakes.

AFN What kitchen equipment do you use more and can’t do without?

Shalom Okeke I would have to say that my high-quality chef's knife is the one piece of kitchen equipment I simply cannot do without.

AFN What are your favorite foods to cook and why?

Shalom Okeke One of my absolute favorite dishes to prepare is a hearty Nigerian jollof rice. I love the complex layers of flavor in this dish, from the fragrant spices to the rich, tomato and pepper-based sauce. Jollof rice is a true staple in Nigerian cuisine, and I take great pride in perfecting my own version, which always leaves my family, friends and customers thoroughly satisfied.

AFN What would you like to share with our audience?

Shalom Okeke I would love to encourage anyone with a passion for food, whether novice or experienced, to embrace their creativity in the kitchen. Cooking is such a wonderful form of self-expression, and there is always more to learn and discover.

AFN How can your fans reach you on social media?

Fans can follow me on Instagram @Sobecooks, where I regularly share recipes, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my culinary adventures. I'm also active on TikTok @Sobecooks as well as the afrifoodnet website where you’ll find my recipes.