Hot, spicy Nkwobi

BY ’NONYE BEN-NWANKWO

A plate of Nkwobi.
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Nkwobi is prepared from cow leg cooked in thickened and cholesterol-free palm oil broth spiced with chili sauce.

Although the delicacy originates from South-Eastern Nigeria, it is popular among most Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, and served at big social events, including weddings and child-naming ceremonies.

It is important to note that one of the ingredients used in preparing Nkwobi is the Utazi leaf, which is said to contain properties that can significantly reduce the blood sugar level in diabetic patients, as well as serve as antioxidant.

Ingredients

•Cow leg

•Palm oil

•Potash (kanun)

•Seasoning

•Ground fresh pepper

•Ground crayfish

•Onions

•Salt

How to prepare

•Cut the cow leg into small pieces and wash thoroughly. Cook with meat ingredients (onions, thyme, seasoning, salt)  until it is very soft and tender enough for consumption.

•Pour small quantity of palm oil into a mortar, add a little of the ground potash and mix until the solution is thick and yellowish

•Add the ground fresh pepper, crayfish, seasoning and salt to taste.

•Pour the cow leg into well mixed sauce and mix again.

•Add the shredded utazi leaves and mix.

•Garnish with onions and serve.

Punch Nigeria