Nigeria / Main
Asaro
Asaro, also known as yam porridge is a traditional Nigerian dish made by cooking yam in a richly seasoned sauce of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and oil. It is particularly popular among the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria but is enjoyed throughout the country. The dish is known for its soft texture and rich flavor. During cooking, part of the yam breaks down into the sauce, creating a thick and hearty porridge. Asaro may be prepared with fish, meat, vegetables, or seafood, and it is served hot.
Ingredients
- tomato3 medium
- red bell pepper2
- scotch bonnet chile pepper2
- onion1 medium
- palm oil or vegetable oil, or vegetable oil1/2 cup
- seasoning cube2–3
- salt, to taste
- protein (fresh fish, meat, or smoked fish), such as fresh fish, meat, or smoked fish; optional200 g
- water or stock, or stock4 cup
- yam, about 1 kg, peeled and cubed1 medium
- leafy vegetables (spinach or ugu), such as spinach or ugu; optional
Quantities are auto-calculated from the original recipe as a guide. Items without numbers (e.g. “to taste”) are not changed.
Method 7 steps
Blend the tomatoes, peppers, and onion into a smooth purée.
Heat the oil in a pot and add the purée. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in seasoning cubes, salt, and any protein being used.
Stir in the water and bring to a boil.
Gently stir in the cubed yam. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the yam becomes soft and some of it has broken down to thicken the dish.
Add leafy vegetables if desired and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes.
Adjust seasoning and remove from heat.
