Every state and every tribe in Nigeria is known for a particular food, and Enugu state is not left out. Being an Igbo land, there are a lot of foods peculiar to Igbo people, and these foods have their origins. Enugu is known as a home of good food. There are a lot of local delicacies in Enugu you must try when you are in the city. Your visit to Enugu is incomplete if you don’t taste these mouthwatering dishes.
Growing up in Enugu, I have had the opportunity to satisfy my taste buds with these healthy local foods, and I can say that it is the real deal. If you are wondering where you can get these meals in Enugu, then you don’t have a problem because every street in the city screams, “Come and eat.”
Many street food vendors and restaurants are there for you, and you can easily get directions to the best spots from people, especially keke (tricycle) riders.
10 best Local delicacies in Enugu
1. Abacha
This is actually my favorite and also the most popular food in Enugu. Abacha is a local delicacy made from dry shredded cassava and spiced with different local ingredients. It is often served with ugba(ukpaka), vegetables, meat, fish, kpomo and a spicy palm oil base.
Abacha goes down well with good palm wine. Getting this meal in Enugu doesn’t even require a Google map; you can easily get them on the street, at local joints, and also in restaurants.
2. Okpa
Okpa is another popular food in the eastern part of Nigeria, and people believe it originated in Nsukka, Enugu state. This meal is made from Bambara nut flour. It is usually steamed in banana leaves. Okpa is a very simple dish that can be served as breakfast or a snack.
You can’t mention Enugu and food without mentioning Okpa. You can readily get okpa vendors anywhere in the streets of Enugu. Okpa can be eaten plain or served with pap but for some people especially students, okpa and coke/pepsi is their favourite combo.
3. Fiofio
Fiofio is a traditional Igbo food and has been saving lives for generations. This meal is sometimes tagged 6 to 6 because it keeps you full for the whole day, and all you need is water to get by the day.
Fiofio goes well with yam, achicha, and even abacha. It is people’s favorite, especially students and laborers because it is a delicious, hearty, and filling meal. You can easily buy this meal from bukkas or restaurants.
4. Nkwobi
Nkwobi is a cuisine common among Igbo people. It is a spicy dish made with cow feet. The meat is boiled until tender and then simmered in a palm oil sauce with spices like habanero peppers, african nutmeg, fresh uziza, akanwu (potash), onions etc. you can easily get this dish from restuarants and local joints. Nwobi goes well with chilled palm wine or beer.
5. Achicha
Achicha is a traditional dish enjoyed by the Igbo, especially the Enugu people. It’s a hearty and nutritious meal made from cooked, peeled, and dried slices of Cocoyam tubers; it is a must-try meal if you are a visitor to Enugu. This meal can be prepared with fiofio, yam, or akidi and garnished with sliced Utazi leaves.
6. Ugba
Ugba is a popular dish in Enugu made from fermented African oil bean seeds. It is enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Ugba is a healthy meal that can be prepared with kpomo and vegetables.
Conclusion
Enugu is a city blessed with many things, including foods that are sumptuous, healthy, affordable, and readily accessible. You can get these meals anywhere, including the streets, local joints and restaurants. You can also ask people for a recommendation on the best places that make this local cuisine.
It is also fun to try making these dishes at home as they are not difficult to prepare. So, when you visit the coal city state, don’t just visit; eat your way through the city. Have fun while you are here.
