Yamarita is a modern Nigerian dish that revolutionized the way yam is served. This innovative recipe was developed to maintain the yam’s soft texture even when served cold, addressing the common issue of yam becoming tough at lower temperatures.
This delightful dish features yam pieces coated in a special batter before frying, which helps preserve moisture and enhance flavor. While traditionally made with wheat flour, this healthier version uses oat flour and incorporates fresh peppers for added nutrition and a delightful crunch. The yam is pre-seasoned during boiling, making each bite burst with flavor.
Ingredients
- 10-12 sticks of yam
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 2 chicken seasoning cubes
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons oat flour
- 1 teaspoon diced green Indian pepper or unripe Shombo pepper
- 1 teaspoon diced red Scotch Bonnet pepper
- Dry pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Tomato ketchup or pepper sauce for serving
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4-6
Steps to Follow
- Step 1: Bring water to boil and season with curry powder, 1 seasoning cube, and salt. Cook yam pieces until tender, then remove and set aside.
- Step 2: Create batter by beating egg with remaining curry powder, seasoning cube, dry pepper, and salt.
- Step 3: Add oat flour to the egg mixture and blend until smooth.
- Step 4: Mix in diced peppers to the batter (optional).
- Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan until hot.
- Step 6: Dip each yam piece in batter, ensuring even coating.
- Step 7: Fry coated yam pieces until golden brown.
- Step 8: Serve hot with tomato ketchup or pepper sauce.
Additional Instructions
- To make oat flour at home, simply blend regular breakfast oats in a blender until fine.
- The dish can be served as either a finger food or main meal.
- Perfect for children’s lunch boxes as it combines proteins and carbohydrates.
- For a less spicy version, omit the diced peppers from the batter.
- Best served warm for optimal texture.
- Store in an airtight container and reheat in oven for best results.
General Nutritional Values
- Approx. Calories: 280 kcal per serving
- Approx. Protein: 6g
- Approx. Carbohydrates: 45g
- Approx. Fat: 8g
