Asaro is a traditional Yoruba yam porridge made by simmering yam in a flavorful palm oil and pepper sauce until it breaks down into a thick, comforting one-pot meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium white yam tuber, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup palm oil
- 2 red bell peppers, blended
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, blended
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
- 1 cup chopped pumpkin leaves or spinach
- 1 stock cube
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
How to Make Asaro
Step 1: Place the yam cubes in a pot with enough water to just cover them.
Step 2: Add blended peppers, onion, crayfish, stock cube, and salt.
Step 3: Cook on medium heat until the yam is soft.
Step 4: Stir in palm oil and mash some of the yam to thicken the porridge.
Step 5: Add the chopped greens and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 6: Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Asaro is a hearty, satisfying Nigerian one-pot meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It is naturally vegetarian but can be made richer with smoked fish or assorted meats.