20 MUST-TRY NIGERIAN DISHES & DRINKS TO ELEVATE YOUR EID CELEBRATION

1. Pounded Yam and Egusi

A classic staple in many Nigerian homes, pounded yam paired with richly seasoned Egusi soup makes for a hearty, satisfying Eid meal. Traditionally pounded using mortar and pestle, it can also be made with yam flour or a yam blender—though the traditional method still reigns in many households.

2. Amala and Ewedu

A beloved Yoruba delicacy, Amala (made from yam flour) pairs beautifully with Ewedu soup, usually mixed with a spicy tomato stew. It can also be enjoyed with Efo Riro or Egusi.

3. Tuwo Shinkafa and Miyan Kuka (Baobab Soup)

This northern Nigerian delight features soft rice tuwo served with Miyan Kuka—a savory soup made from baobab leaves. It’s rich in nutrients and full of flavor, perfect for a special occasion like Eid.

4. Jollof Rice and Grilled Ram Meat

No Nigerian celebration is complete without jollof rice. Serve it with perfectly grilled ram meat and a side of plantains for the ultimate festive plate.

5. Fried Rice and Chicken

Another party classic. Add vegetables, liver, and prawns to the fried rice and serve with spicy grilled or stewed chicken.

6. Ofada Rice and Ayamase (Ofada Stew)

This native rice variety is traditionally served with a peppery green sauce made from green bell peppers and assorted meats. A smoky, earthy dish that screams celebration.

7. Moi Moi (Steamed Bean Pudding)

A protein-rich side made from blended beans, pepper, and onions, moi moi pairs well with jollof or fried rice—or can stand alone with boiled eggs or fish.

8. Banga Soup and Starch

From the Niger Delta, Banga soup made with palm fruit extract and assorted meats is a rich delicacy best served with starch or pounded yam.

9. Oha Soup and Fufu

This Eastern Nigerian soup is made with fragrant oha leaves and thickened with cocoyam. It’s a beloved Igbo favorite, perfect with fufu.

10. Okra Soup with Semovita

Quick, slimy, and nutritious—okra soup, especially when loaded with seafood and meats, is a great match for semovita or eba.

11. Nkwobi

A spicy cow foot delicacy served in thick palm oil sauce, Nkwobi is often reserved for special occasions like Eid.

12. Pepper Soup

Made with ram, goat meat, or catfish, pepper soup is light, spicy, and aromatic. It can be served as a starter or as a main dish with boiled yam or rice.

13. Efo Riro

This Yoruba-style vegetable soup is made with spinach, tomatoes, and assorted meats. Serve it with amala, pounded yam, or rice.

14. Beans and Dodo (Fried Plantains)

This humble dish of stewed beans and sweet plantains is both filling and comforting. It’s a great brunch option during Eid.

15. Akara (Bean Cakes) and Pap

Perfect for Eid morning breakfast, akara is made from deep-fried ground beans and served with pap (fermented corn pudding) or custard.

Drinks to Complete Your Meal:

16. Zobo Drink

Made from hibiscus leaves, this refreshing deep red drink is both healthy and delicious, often infused with pineapple or ginger.

17. Chapman

A fizzy Nigerian cocktail made with bitters, soda, lemon, and fruit slices. It’s a colorful and festive favorite at celebrations.

18. Kunu

This traditional northern drink, made from millet or tiger nuts, is sweet, creamy, and satisfying.

19. Palm Wine

For those who enjoy a local touch, palm wine is a naturally fermented drink that’s both sweet and tangy.

20. Fruit Smoothies or Fresh Juices

Add some freshness to your table with chilled smoothies or juice blends made from watermelon, pineapple, orange, and mango.

This Eid al-Adha, break away from the usual and let your dining table reflect Nigeria’s rich culinary diversity. Whether you stick to tradition or explore new flavors, remember: Eid is about gratitude, generosity, and sharing meals with those you love.

Eid Mubarak from all of us at 3SixtyIslam