I tasted baked scallops for the first time at a cozy family dinner, the kind where the air is filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the irresistible aroma of spices warming in the oven. My aunt, a passionate home cook, had perfected her baked scallops recipe—golden, buttery, and infused with a rich blend of spices that made every bite melt in my mouth. That dish was more than just seafood; it was an experience, a balance of textures and flavors that turned a regular evening into something unforgettable. And that’s the magic of baked scallops. Why Baked Scallops Deserve a Special Day Every year on March 12, we celebrate National Baked Scallops Day, a tribute to this elegant yet simple...
I still remember the way my mother’s kitchen smelled on Sunday afternoons. The rich aroma of locust beans mingling with black pepper, the warmth of dry fish powder, and the flavor of uziza seeds filled the air. It was the kind of scent that made your stomach grumble before you even saw the pot on the fire. Growing up, native soups were more than just meals—they were a celebration. A gathering of family, culture, and tradition, all simmering together in one bubbling pot. And the real magic? It wasn’t just in the fresh vegetables or the tender pieces of meat; it was in the blend of spices. My mother always said, “The right spices make the difference between an ordinary...
Growing up, some of my fondest memories were of family road trips, sitting in the back seat of our car, with the windows rolled down and the wind blowing through my hair. But what made those trips special wasn’t just the laughter or the destinations—it was the snacks we brought along. From the crunch of kuli kuli to the spicy flavor of kilishi, every bite was an adventure. Even today, these snacks remain my go-to when I’m looking for something to munch on during a lazy afternoon or while binge-watching my favorite shows.If you’re like me and love a good crunch, let me take you on a journey of some of my all-time favorite traditional snacks that’ll keep your taste...
Jollof rice, a popular West African dish, is known for its vibrant colors and delicious taste. But even the most experienced cooks can encounter challenges when preparing this culinary masterpiece. To help you create the perfect Jollof rice, we've compiled some handy hacks that will take your cooking to the next level. The Secret to Perfect Jollof Rice The Tomato Base The foundation of jollof rice lies in the tomato paste. For a rich, deep flavor, opt for high-quality tomato paste and cook it down with onions and peppers until it thickens and caramelizes. Ensure you don't use too much tomato paste as this can lead to a bitter and overpowering flavor. The Parboiling Power Parboiling your rice before adding it...
In our previous post, we explored the world of pepper from cayenne pepper to bell pepper and scotch bonnet. Today, we're continuing our spicy journey with three more captivating peppers: habaneros, white pepper, and black pepper. Habaneros Habaneros, known for their bright orange color and intense heat, are a staple in many Latin American cuisines. With a Scoville heat unit rating that can reach up to 350,000, habaneros are not for the faint of heart. Their flavor profile, however, is surprisingly complex, often with fruity or floral notes that balance the heat. It’s suitable for spicy sauces, stews, and vegetable soups. Habaneros also double as a spice for marinating chicken or meat stock and pepper soup. White Pepper Unlike black pepper, which is made...
