I still remember the first time I had a seafood dish that tasted so nice. It was in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was thick with the aroma of simmering broth. She had this way of blending spices and seafood so well that every bite felt like a warm hug. She never measured ingredients—just a pinch of this, a handful of that. But what made her dishes unforgettable was the rich, deep flavor of seafood. The crayfish, stockfish, and prawns worked magic in her pot, releasing a savory depth that no artificial seasoning could ever match. Years later, I found myself trying to recreate her recipes. But life got busy, and I didn’t always have time to source and...
The start of a new year always brings a feeling of renewal—an opportunity to reset, reorganize, and create new habits. Some years back, after the holiday feasts, I found myself standing in the middle of my kitchen one January morning, staring at the remnants of cookies, rich stews, and festive snacks. It hit me—grocery shopping needed a change. I wanted to shift from impulsive buying to a more intentional approach, one that would nourish my body and spirit throughout the year. If you’re like me, you've probably thought about making healthier choices, saving a bit of cash, or simply finding joy in the ritual of cooking. But grocery shopping can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. So, let...
Christmas is a time for family, laughter, and delicious meals that bring everyone together. But let’s be honest—the cost of preparing a festive feast can pile up quickly, leaving your wallet feeling a little too light. That’s why I want to share a story about Kemi, one of our loyal customers. Last Christmas, Kemi was determined to host her family’s annual holiday dinner, but she had a strict budget to stick to. Instead of stressing, she got creative and turned to Flourish Spices and African Food for help. By the end of the day, her dining table was filled with mouthwatering dishes that left her guests asking for seconds (and thirds!). The best part? She didn’t break the bank. Want...
I still remember the first time I encountered nkwobi at my friend Chioma's home in Lagos. The aromatic spices wafting through her kitchen told me I was in for something special, but I had no idea this traditional Igbo dish would become one of my most cherished culinary discoveries. Nkwobi, for the uninitiated, is a delicacy of spiced cow foot, slow-cooked until tender and served in a rich, palm oil-based sauce. The secret lies in the blend of seasonings - ground ehuru (calabash nutmeg), uziza seeds, utazi leaves, and potash, which create a complex harmony of flavors that arouse your taste buds. The Nutritional Benefits in Every Bite Beyond its incredible taste, Nkwobi is surprisingly nutritious. Here’s why: Protein...
Last month, my friend invited me over for dinner. While helping her prep in the kitchen, I reached into her fridge to grab some garlic and found something odd. There was a whole tub of palm oil sitting on the shelf, right next to some onions. I paused and asked, “Why is your palm oil in the fridge?” She laughed and said, “I thought it would stay fresh longer this way!” That moment stuck with me. Many of us don’t think twice about what we toss into the fridge. But here’s the truth: not everything belongs there. In fact, storing certain foods in the fridge can ruin their flavor, texture, or shelf life. If you’ve been wondering why your food...
