Description
Ewedu (Corchorus olitorius), also known as jute leaves, is a slimy, green leafy vegetable that is a staple in Yoruba cuisine. When cooked, it has a slippery texture, similar to okra, which makes it easy to swallow. The leaves are usually blended or whisked after boiling to achieve a smooth, viscous consistency. Ewedu is prized for its unique taste and texture, as well as its rich nutritional value.
Sources
Primarily cultivated in the southwestern states of Nigeria but also grown in other regions with warm, moist soil. It is commonly sold fresh in open markets and can also be home-grown in backyard gardens.
Health Benefits
Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which promote good eyesight and healthy skin.
Supports digestion due to its mucilaginous (slimy) texture.
Boosts immunity and helps fight infections.
Promotes bone and teeth health with its high calcium content.
Aids postpartum recovery in women.
Common soups or dishes you can use it for
Ewedu soup (often served with amala and gbegiri)
Ewedu with stew and assorted meats
Mixed vegetable soups with okra
Ewedu with melon (egusi) combination soups
Description
Scent leaf, scientifically known as Ocimum gratissimum, is a highly aromatic herb widely used in Nigerian cooking for its strong, pleasant fragrance and flavor. Known as Efinrin in Yoruba, Nchanwu in Igbo, and Daidoya in Hausa, it adds a unique taste to soups, stews, and sauces. Aside from its culinary role, scent leaf is also valued for its medicinal and health-boosting properties in traditional medicine.
Sources
Grown across Nigeria, particularly in home gardens and farms in the South-West, South-East, and Middle Belt regions. It thrives in both the rainy and dry seasons.
Health Benefits
Boosts immunity due to its rich content of vitamins and antioxidants.
Aids digestion and helps relieve bloating and stomach discomfort.
Antibacterial and antifungal properties help fight infections.
Helps regulate blood sugar when consumed regularly.
Relieves cough and cold when boiled and taken as herbal tea.
Common soups or dishes you can use it for
Pepper soup
Yam porridge
Ofada sauce (Ayamase)
Vegetable sauce for rice or yam
Ogbono soup (for added flavor)
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