Goat meat (Subscriber price only)

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
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