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...
I was seven when I first tasted a pickle. It wasn’t just the crunch that hooked me; it was the sour, tangy flavor that seemed to light up every taste bud. From that moment on, pickles had a place in my heart and, more importantly, in my kitchen. But as I grew older, I realized that pickles are so much more than a zesty snack. They’re packed with health benefits and have a place in almost every cuisine. Today, on National Pickle Day, let’s consider why pickles deserve a place in your diet, plus some creative ways to use them in cooking. And, if you’re feeling inspired, Flourish Spices and African Food is here to help you stock up on...
National Oatmeal Day is a day to celebrate one of the world's oldest and most beloved breakfast foods. But what if we told you that oatmeal could be reimagined, transformed into a nutritious and grain-free delight? Imagine a world where you could savor the taste of a traditional Nigerian meal, like pounded yam or amala, without the carb-heavy guilt. A world where you could indulge in a delicious, low-carb alternative that's both nutritious and satisfying. That world is here, thanks to Flourish Spices and African Food. Our groundbreaking low-carb oatmeal swallow, made from organic coconut flour, flaxseed meal, and vegetable plant-based ingredients is a game-changer. Why Oatswallow? Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, Oatswallow keeps you fuller for...
Every year, on October 22nd, nut lovers around the world come together to celebrate National Nut Day. It’s a day dedicated to appreciating these tiny powerhouses of nutrition that bring joy, crunch, and a splash of flavor to our meals and snacks. This year, let's take a crunchy journey that highlights the unique role nuts play in our diets, particularly in African cuisine, and how you can spice things up with Flourish Spices! Growing up, I was a picky eater, and nuts were definitely not on my list of favorites. But as I got older, I started to appreciate the unique taste and texture of almonds, walnuts, and cashews. I even discovered peanut butters, which made a delicious spread for...
