Onunu is a cherished traditional dish from the Ijaw and Kalabari communities of south-south Nigeria, typically served during wedding ceremonies. This unique combination of pounded yam and plantain offers a delightful twist – unlike regular pounded yam, Onunu is meant to be chewed rather than swallowed whole.
The dish is traditionally paired with a light fish stew that perfectly complements its texture and taste. The stew can be adjusted from mild to spicy according to personal preference, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 medium slice yam
- 1 medium very ripe plantain
- 2 tablespoons palm oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2-3 pieces fresh fish
- 2-3 pieces crab (optional)
- 1½ cooking spoons tomato/pepper/onion blend
- ¼ onion, chopped
- 2 cooking spoons palm oil (for sauce)
- Few leaves of partmenjar or curry leaves
- Dry pepper to taste
- Seasoning cubes to taste
- Salt to taste
Steps to Follow
- Step 1: Peel and dice yam into small cubes, bring to boil in water
- Step 2: Peel plantain, cut into 3 pieces, add to boiling yam after 5 minutes
- Step 3: Add salt when both are nearly cooked
- Step 4: Cook until soft, then pound with palm oil until well combined
- Step 5: Form the mixture into small balls
- Step 6: Marinate fish and crab with dry pepper and seasoning cubes for 20 minutes
- Step 7: Steam fish and crab in little water for 5 minutes on low heat
- Step 8: Heat palm oil and fry onions until light brown
- Step 9: Add tomato/pepper mix and fry for 5 minutes
- Step 10: Add seasoning and additional pepper if desired
- Step 11: Add water and cook until tomato loses its tang
- Step 12: Add fish, crab, curry leaves, and fish stock; simmer until cooked
Additional Instructions
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 people
- The stew should be light in consistency, similar to Yoruba-style eba stew
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently to maintain texture
- Can be made without crab for those with shellfish allergies
General Nutritional Values
- Approx. Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Approx. Protein: 15g
- Approx. Carbohydrates: 65g
- Approx. Fat: 18g
