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.

Category: Yoruba

Ingredients

• 3 medium tomatoes
• 2 red bell peppers
• 2 scotch bonnet chile peppers
• 1 medium onion
• ½ cup palm oil or vegetable oil
• 2–3 seasoning cubes
• Salt to taste
• 200 g protein, such as fresh fish, meat, or smoked fish (optional)
• 4 cups water or stock
• 1 medium (about 1 kg) yam, peeled and cubed
• Leafy vegetables such as spinach or ugu (optional)

Instructions

1. Blend the tomatoes, peppers, and onion into a smooth purée.
2. Heat the oil in a pot and add the purée. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in seasoning cubes, salt, and any protein being used.
4. Stir in the water and bring to a boil.
5. 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.
6. Add leafy vegetables if desired and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning and remove from heat.

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