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Yam Porridge (Asaro) Recipe
Dinner

Yam Porridge (Asaro) Recipe

40 min Cook
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  • Yam Porridge, also known as Asaro, is a traditional Nigerian one-pot dish made with tender yams simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato and palm oil sauce. With the addition of ground crayfish, smoked fish, and optional leafy greens, this hearty porridge offers a delicious balance of savory and spicy flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, Asaro is a satisfying meal that showcases the best of Nigerian comfort food.
  • Nutritional Info (per serving):
  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g

Yam Porridge, also known as Asaro, is a cherished dish that originates from the Yoruba people of Nigeria. This comforting, one-pot meal is made with yam—one of West Africa’s staple foods—cooked down to a tender, creamy consistency in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. With its rich combination of spices, palm oil, and seasonings, Asaro offers a balance of sweetness, savoriness, and depth, making it a popular comfort food in many Nigerian households.

The magic of Asaro lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the slow cooking process that allows the yams to break down and absorb all the rich flavors of the stew. Key to its distinctive taste is palm oil, which adds a unique depth and rich color to the porridge, while crayfish (ground dried shrimp) introduces a subtle, umami-rich layer to the dish. Pepper, onions, and tomatoes create a flavorful base, while smoked fish or meat can be added for extra heartiness, though it’s equally delicious as a vegetarian dish.

Yam Porridge is incredibly versatile. It can be prepared with different levels of spiciness to suit your taste, and it pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, such as fried plantains or steamed vegetables. In Nigeria, this dish is enjoyed for lunch or dinner, providing a filling, nutrient-packed meal that warms the soul.

Rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, Yam Porridge is not only tasty but also nourishing, making it a go-to dish for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether you’re new to Nigerian cuisine or a long-time fan, Asaro will quickly become a favorite on your dining table. Dive into the creamy, flavorful goodness of this traditional recipe and experience the authentic taste of Nigerian home cooking!

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A Traditional Nigerian Dish Bursting with Rich, Savory Goodness

A Traditional Nigerian Dish Bursting with Rich, Savory Goodness

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Yam Porridge, also known as Asaro, is a traditional Nigerian one-pot dish made with tender yams simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato and palm oil sauce. With the addition of ground crayfish, smoked fish, and optional leafy greens, this hearty porridge offers a delicious balance of savory and spicy flavors. Perfect for lunch or dinner, Asaro is a satisfying meal that showcases the best of Nigerian comfort food.
prep time
15 min
cooking time
40 min
servings
4-6
total time
45 min

Equipment

  • Large cooking pot

  • Wooden spoon (for stirring)

  • Blender (for blending tomatoes and peppers)

  • Knife (for cutting yam)

  • Chopping board

  • Measuring spoons and cups

  • Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

  • 1 medium-sized tuber of yam (peeled and cut into cubes)

  • 2-3 tablespoons palm oil

  • 2 large tomatoes (blended)

  • 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (ata rodo), blended

  • 1 large onion (chopped)

  • 1/4 cup crayfish (ground)

  • 1 smoked fish (optional)

  • 1/2 cup spinach or ugu leaves (optional)

  • 2 bouillon cubes (or seasoning to taste)

  • Salt to taste

  • Water

Instructions

1

Instructions:

Prepare the Yam: Peel the yam and cut it into medium-sized cubes. Rinse thoroughly and set aside. Create the Base Sauce: In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Then, add the blended tomatoes, Scotch bonnet peppers, and seasoning cubes. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and the raw tomato taste is cooked out. Cook the Yam: Add the yam cubes into the pot, and pour in enough water to cover the yams. Stir well to combine the yam with the sauce. Cover the pot and let the yam cook for about 25-30 minutes until tender. Add the Crayfish and Smoked Fish: Once the yam is soft, gently mash some of the pieces in the pot to thicken the porridge. Stir in the ground crayfish and add the smoked fish (if using). Let the porridge cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Add the Vegetables: If you're using spinach or ugu leaves, stir them into the porridge and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until wilted. Serve: Once done, serve the Yam Porridge hot, garnished with additional chopped vegetables or paired with fried plantains for a truly satisfying meal.
2

Tips for the Perfect Asaro:

For a richer flavor, allow some of the yam pieces to break down during cooking, creating a thick, creamy consistency. Adjust the pepper level to your heat preference by using more or fewer Scotch bonnets. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the smoked fish.

Notes

Texture Adjustment: For a thicker porridge, mash some of the yam cubes as they cook. For a smoother consistency, you can blend a portion of the yam before adding it to the pot. Palm Oil: Authentic Asaro is known for its rich color and flavor from palm oil. If you prefer a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of palm oil, but it may affect the traditional taste and appearance. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder porridge, use fewer peppers or remove the seeds before blending. Vegetable Options: Spinach or ugu leaves add extra nutrition and flavor. Feel free to substitute with other leafy greens like kale if needed. Meat Alternatives: If you’re not using smoked fish, you can add cooked meats like chicken or beef for added protein. Ensure they are well-seasoned to complement the porridge. Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the type and size of yam chunks. Check for tenderness and adjust as necessary.
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