Asaro (Nigerian Yam Porridge)
Local name: Àsáró
In short: A thick, comforting Yoruba porridge of yam cubes simmered in a palm oil, tomato and pepper sauce, thickened by the yam's own starch. It takes about 1 h 5 min in total and makes 5 servings.
- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 45 min
- Total
- 1 h 5 min
- Servings
- 5
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 345 kcal
Asaro is a yam porridge from the Yoruba kitchen, cooked when you want something filling, cheap and quick. White yam cubes simmer in a pepper and tomato sauce with palm oil, and some of the cubes break down to thicken the pot. Dried fish and ground crayfish add savor, while spinach brings color. It is eaten as a main meal on its own, often with fried fish on the side.
Instructions
- Rinse the yam cubes in cold water and leave them in a bowl of fresh water until needed. This washes off loose starch and keeps them from browning.
- Heat the palm oil in a wide pot over medium heat for 1 minute. Fry the onion for 3 minutes, then add the pepper purée and cook for 10 minutes, stirring, until thick and the oil begins to separate.
- Pour in the water and stir in the salt, black pepper, and the crayfish and dried fish if using. Bring to a boil.
- Drain the yam and add it to the pot. The liquid should just cover the yam, so add a little hot water if needed. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until a cube is tender when pierced.
- Press a few cubes against the side of the pot with a wooden spoon to break them up. Stir gently and cook for 5 more minutes until the porridge thickens around the remaining cubes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt, rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot.
Tips
- If the porridge gets too thick, loosen it with a splash of hot water, not cold, which can turn the yam gummy.
- Unripe green plantain, cut into rounds, is a common alternative to yam, and sweet potato makes a softer, sweeter porridge.
Questions and answers
What is the best yam for yam porridge?
White African yam holds its shape and releases starch that thickens the pot. Sweet potatoes are softer and sweeter, and give a different dish.
Can I make asaro without palm oil?
Yes. Use vegetable oil and add 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika for color. The flavor will be milder.
How do I reheat leftover yam porridge?
Warm it in a pan with a splash of water, stirring gently. It thickens in the fridge, so add water until the consistency loosens again.
How long does it take to make Asaro (Nigerian Yam Porridge)?
About 1 h 5 min in total: 20 min of preparation and 45 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Asaro (Nigerian Yam Porridge)?
About 345 kcal per serving, with 9 g of protein, 51 g of carbohydrates and 12 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 345 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 51 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
