Abacha African Salad

Buy the best abacha food in Enugu

Where to buy good Abacha food? Our chefs who prepare our abacha make the onions weep.
Our chefs here make sauces sing and all the veggies dance. We create magic with skill, knowledge, passion, and stirring spoons (among other things). We make good so good, it doesn’t know what to do with itself. Try and see how we have cut a niche for ourselves. Smoked fish, kpomo and ugba are our standard dishes. Stockfish or dry fish option on request.

Abacha Ingredients 

• Abacha (cassava flakes): The main ingredient, made from dried, shredded cassava.
• Ugba (fermented African oil bean seed): Adds a distinct, savoury flavor.
• Palm oil: Gives the salad its vibrant colour and rich, nutty flavour.
• Potash (Akaun or Akanwu): This food tenderiser is dissolved in water and mixed with palm oil to create the characteristic yellowish paste.
• Ground crayfish: For an umami, seafood-based flavor.
• Ehuru (Calabash nutmeg): Aromatic ground seeds that are roasted and blended for a unique flavor.
• Fresh and dry pepper: To add heat to taste.
• Onions: Used for flavor and garnish.
• Seasoning cubes: To enhance the overall flavor.
• Salt: To taste.
• Utazi leaves or garden egg leaves: For garnish and a slightly bitter, peppery taste.
• Kpomo (cow skin): Cooked and sliced, often added as a topping.
• Smoked or dry fish: Provides additional protein and flavor. 

Preparation

1. Prepare the abacha: Soak the dried cassava flakes in cold water for about 10 minutes until soft. Drain well in a colander.
2. Make the sauce: Dissolve the potash in a small amount of water. In a bowl or pot, mix the palm oil with the potash water. Stir continuously until the oil thickens and turns into a yellow paste. Do not use heat for this step.
3. Combine the flavours: Add the ground crayfish, ground ehuru, pepper, and seasoning cubes to the palm oil paste. Stir until well combined.
4. Mix the ingredients: Add the prepared ugba and the drained, softened abacha to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the cassava flakes are coated in the flavorful paste.
5. Add garnishes and toppings: Mix in chopped onions, sliced garden egg leaves, or utazi leaves. You can also mix in or top the salad with cooked kpomo or smoked fish.
6. Serve: Abacha salad is often served at room temperature and is a beloved delicacy for both everyday meals and special occasions. 

Nutritional Value of Abacha

Abacha, also known as African Salad, is a traditional Nigerian dish made primarily from dried, shredded cassava. It is rich in nutrients and offers several health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value:

Nutritional Composition

1. Carbohydrates: Cassava, the main ingredient, is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing energy. A serving of Abacha contains approximately 80% carbohydrates.
2. Protein: Additional ingredients like crayfish, fish, or meat contribute to its protein content, supporting muscle growth and repair.
3. Vitamins: 
   • Vitamin A: Promotes good vision and immune health.
   • Vitamin C: Found in garden egg leaves and vegetables, it boosts immunity and skin health.
   • B-complex Vitamins: Support energy production and overall metabolism.
4. Minerals:
   • Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.
   • Potassium: Supports heart health and regulates blood pressure.
   • Iron: Boosts blood production and prevents anemia.
   • Magnesium and Phosphorus: Essential for bone health and energy metabolism.
5. Fiber: The inclusion of vegetables and garden eggs adds fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation.
6. Fat: Palm oil used in preparation provides healthy fats and antioxidants.

Calories

A typical serving of Abacha contains approximately 367 to 380 calories per 100g, depending on the ingredients used.

Health Benefits

• Gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance.
• Promotes digestive health and bowel movement.
• Supports heart health and reduces the risk of obesity.
• Contains antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Abacha is not only a flavorful dish but also a nutritious option for a balanced diet.