You’ve just finished making a big pot of stew, and your kitchen smells amazing. You call the kids, maybe even the neighbors, and you’re feeling like the kitchen queen (or king) of the day. But then… that first spoonful hits differently.Too tangy. Almost sour. Not what you were going for. All that fresh tomato, all that palm oil, all that meat—was it all a waste? Relax. We've been there. Many of us grew up watching our aunties and moms turn tangy disasters into finger-licking masterpieces. Let’s talk about how to do just that without losing the soul of your dish. So, Why Does Food Taste Tangy? In African cooking, especially Nigerian dishes—the tangy taste usually comes from acidic ingredients like...
There I was, proudly stirring my pot of ogbono soup, humming along to Asa’s “Bibanke,” when I decided to taste my masterpiece. And then bam! Salt. Too. Much. Salt. My heart sank. I had been looking forward to that soup all day. But instead of panicking, I remembered something my mum used to say: “A good cook isn’t one who never makes mistakes, but one who knows how to fix them.” So, apron still on and hope still alive, I got to work. If you’ve ever over-salted your pot of stew, egusi, ogbono, or even jollof, you’re not alone. Here are a few tried-and-true ways to rescue your favorite African and Nigerian dishes when the salt is threatening to take...
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...
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...
There’s something magical about the warmth of a steaming pot of okro soup simmering on the stove. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing family and friends together, ready to dive into a bowl of comfort. Growing up, my weekends revolved around helping my mom in the kitchen as she prepared this dish. I can still hear her laughter and the rhythmic sound of her chopping okro while sharing stories of our family’s heritage.However, I vividly remember the struggle of cutting okro—slimy fingers and little bits of green everywhere. It was enough to make me wonder if there was an easier way to enjoy this flavorful soup. Well, there is! Here are five hacks for cooking delicious okro soup without...
