How to Prepare ‘Ekwang’

Ekwang as referred to by Cameroonians, and Ekpang in Ibibio (Nigeria ) is a traditional/ native dish to the people of Oroko, Bafaw, Bakweri of the South West Region of Cameroon, Cross river and Akwa Ibom states in Nigeria. It is a popular dish that has however been consumed nationwide, with its rich nutritional components extracted from its various recipes. To obtain its taste and great flavour, the right method and ingredients composition is essential. Recipe for Ekwang include

▶️Macabo(cocoyams)

▶️Cocoyams leaves

▶️Smoked fish/ stock beef depends on your choice

▶️Seasoning cubes and pinch of salt to taste

▶️Red oil(palm oil)

▶️Crayfish

▶️ Country onions

▶️Garlic and ginger,

▶️ black pepper

▶️Onion

▶️ Pepper

▶️Maggi

METHOD/ INSTRUCTIONS OF COOKING EKWANG

-Peel, wash and grate your cocoyams using a grater.

-Season the paste with small salt. After this ,

-Coat a large pot with palm oil to prevent wrapped cocoyam paste from sticking.

-Take a tea spoon of cocoyam and place at one end of the leaf and wrap it. Repeat the process till the paste is finish

-Make sure you place your little wraps in criss- cross patterns so the stock goes run.-Add every other mentioned ingredients above to the wrapped cocoyams.

-Add two cups of water and start to boil. Make sure to check from time to time and avoid stirring it constantly with a spoon, in order to avoid wrapped cocoyam paste from being mushy. Instead shake the pot from time to time ( 5 minutes interval advisably)

Cook for approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour. After this period of cooking, endeavour to serve your Ekwang hot. Ekwang as earlier mentioned, is rich in nutritional value based on the combination of different spices. Below are the few amongst many other health benefits you can obtain from eating a delicious Ekwang

HEALTH BENEFITS

pepper is used in reducing the likelihood of anaemia.

Onions are used in lowering blood sugar levels, and improve bone health.

Garlic may reduce the risk of heart attacks, and support healthy joints.

Maggi is fortified with vitamin A, Iron and iodine.

Red oil is a great source of carotenoids and vitamin E, which acts as antioxidants to help prevent cell damage.

Ginger can cut down on fermentation constipation and other causes of bloating and intestinal gas.

Country onions contain calcium, a mineral that is vital for strong bones and teeth.

BON APPETIT