Cocoyam Porridge (Achicha Ede) Recipe || Enugu Recipe

Cocoyam Porridge (achicha ede) is a Nigerian meal that hails from Enugu state made primarily of dried cocoyam flakes, pigeon pea(agbugbu) and palm oil.

When soaked in water, cocoyam (achicha) has this tendency to swell. In Nsukka area and other parts of Igboland where this delicacy is enjoyed, cocoyam is planted in rainy season.

It is usually harvested during harmattan season. Afterwards, it is cooked and either sun dried or smoke dried. The temperature at this time is perfect so it quickly dries the boiled cocoyam.

This recipe can be prepared and enjoyed on its own but it can also be prepared and relished with either pigeon pea or white yam. Pigeon pea is locally known as agbugbu in Enugu State and fiofio in Anambra State.

Cocoyam Porridge (Achicha Ede) Recipe || Enugu Recipe — Cocoyam

How to Prepare Cocoyam Porridge (Achicha Ede) Recipe

The preparation of the cocoyam, begins long before it is cooked, which is why it is not often consumed.

The ingredients for making achicha ede are

Shredded oil beans which is known locally as ukpaka

Fio-fio (pigeon pea)

Smashed achicha (cocoyam)

Crayfish

Onions

Pepper

Palm oil

Salt

Knorr cubes

Scent leaves

Fish (optional)

Nylon (for achicha).

Method Of Preparation

Pick your pigeon pea.(The same way you pick your beans)
Wash your pigeon pea (after picking out the good ones)
In a pot, pour water, add the pigeon pea and leave to cook for 30 minutes. Ensure your water is above the level of the pigeon pea(fio-fio).
Cook for 30 mins,drain the water,wash the pigeon pea, pour fresh water into the pot,pour the pigeon pea back and cook until it’s soft.
In a bowl of water pour the already crushed cocoyam,allow it to soak for 10mins.
Wash thoroughly until there is no sand in it,drain the water,tie them portion by portion in nylon and put inside the already cooking pot where the pigeon peas are .
Allow it to cook for 30mins remove it from fire and let the pigeon peas to cook until is soft,that means is done.
Drain the water,untie the cocoyam and mix with the pigeon peas.
In a separate pot or frying pan,add red oil,allow it to heat for 3 minutes.
Add onions,pepper,ukpaka,maggi,scent leaf, salt and stir. Allow it to cook for 10 mins and remember to taste for salt.
Mix the already prepared sauce with the pigeon pea and cocoyam together and stir until it is evenly distributed.

Enjoy.

NOTE: Some people do not like ukpaka in theirs and it is okay.

You can also eat it with fried fish.

The major ingredient in Achicha Ede is cocoyam so most of the nutritional values come from it

Cocoyam contains essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D,C,E,B6 and folate and is also rich in fiber.It also contains nutrients such as manganese,copper, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Health Benefits of Cocoyam Porridge (Achicha Ede) Recipe || Enugu Recipe

Good For Diabetics Patient

Cocoyam has a lot of dietary fiber which helps to reduce blood sugar levels. It also aids in the reduction of sugar in blood cells. As a result, a diabetic diet might include cocoyam.This makes achicha ede safe for diabetic patients to consume.

Aids In Kidney Protection

Diabetic nephropathy is a situation in which high blood sugar levels deteriorate portions of the kidney.

Diabetic nephropathy may be reduced by eating cocoyam. Due to its high fiber content and low calorie count, cocoyam is beneficial for weight loss.

May Reduce The Effect Of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of those diseases associated with old age, affecting the joints and muscles. Since cocoyam is rich in vitamin B6, it can be consumed to combat chronic inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This is to say, achicha ede is strongly recommended for older adults with rheumatoid arthritis.

Boost The Immune System

Vitamin C is an immune booster, and it is found in high quantities in cocoyam. This mineral helps to strengthen the white blood cells against pathogenic agents. Additionally, the ingredients used in preparing achicha ede contain beneficial ingredients that boost the white blood cells.

Regulates Blood Pressure

The high content of potassium in cocoyam helps balance blood pressure. People who has high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases can consume food that is high in potassium such as cocoyam to alleviate it.

Cocoyam Porridge (Achicha Ede) Recipe || Enugu Recipe