Description
Shoko, also called Lagos spinach or celosia leaves, is a traditional Nigerian leafy vegetable native to tropical Africa. It is widely grown in Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest, and is prized for its slightly bitter taste which mellows when cooked.
Sources
Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and Ondo states.
Health benefits
Rich in antioxidants – helps fight free radicals and support cell health.
High in vitamin C – boosts immunity and promotes wound healing.
Good source of folate – important for red blood cell production and pregnancy health.
Contains iron – supports blood health and energy levels.
Aids digestion – thanks to its dietary fiber content.
Common soups you can use it for
Efo Riro (traditional Yoruba vegetable stew)
Efo Shoko (Shoko-based vegetable sauce)
Egusi Soup (melon seed soup with greens)
Ogbono Soup
Okra Soup
Description
Moi Moi leaf comes from the plant Thaumatococcus daniellii, known for its broad, flexible, and aromatic leaves. These leaves are not eaten but are used as natural wrappers for steaming dishes like Moi Moi (bean pudding) and some local rice delicacies. Cooking with Moi Moi leaves gives food a distinct earthy aroma and flavor compared to using nylon or foil.
Sources
Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti, as well as parts of the South-South.
Health benefits (indirect — since the leaves are not consumed directly)
Adds a natural aroma to food without artificial flavoring.
Eco-friendly and biodegradable compared to synthetic wraps.
Helps retain food nutrients during steaming due to its natural sealing effect.
The plant itself has medicinal uses in traditional medicine (e.g., the fruits are used as natural sweeteners).
Common soups or dishes you can use it for
Moi Moi (bean pudding)
Ekuru (steamed mashed beans)
Some local steamed rice dishes
Description
Utazi, scientifically known as Gongronema latifolium, is a slightly bitter-sweet, aromatic leaf used both as a spice and vegetable in Nigerian cuisine. It is native to West Africa and is highly valued for its medicinal properties as well as its flavor-enhancing qualities in soups and traditional dishes.
Sources
Enugu, Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi.
Health benefits
Aids digestion – helps reduce bloating and improve bowel movement.
Supports blood sugar regulation – beneficial for people with diabetes.
Rich in antioxidants – helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
Boosts immunity – contains vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system.
Improves appetite – often used in traditional medicine to stimulate hunger.
Common soups you can use it for
Nsala Soup (White Soup)
Oha Soup
Bitterleaf Soup (Ofe Onugbu)
Pepper Soup
Yam Pepper Soup with Fish or Meat
Description
Uziza (Piper guineense) is a fragrant, peppery leaf and seed plant native to West Africa. The leaves have a slightly bitter and spicy taste, while the seeds are pungent with a distinct aroma. In Nigerian cooking, the leaves are used fresh or dried to add depth and spice to soups and stews.
Sources
Primarily cultivated in Southeastern Nigeria, especially in states like Enugu, Abia, Imo, Anambra, and Ebonyi.
Health benefits
Aids digestion – helps relieve constipation and bloating.
Anti-inflammatory – soothes body pains and inflammation.
Boosts immunity – contains vitamins, minerals, and essential oils that fight infections.
Improves reproductive health – traditionally believed to boost fertility and sexual health.
Rich in dietary fiber – supports gut health.
Common soups you can use it for
Nsala Soup (White Soup)
Oha Soup
Pepper Soup
Egusi Soup (especially the Southeastern variation)
Okra Soup with mixed leaves