A Culinary Journey Through Benue State: 10 Must-Try Dishes

Benue State, often called the “Food Basket of the Nation,” is a home of culinary delights in Nigeria. The state is famous for its fertile soil and agricultural abundance, producing a rich variety of traditional dishes that capture the essence of its diverse culture. 

If you ever find yourself exploring this beautiful region, you must try the dishes of Benue State, which promise to leave your taste buds in awe. From hearty soups to refreshing snacks, every bite tells a story of heritage, love, and community.

In this blog post, we’ll explore ten traditional dishes showcasing Benue State’s best culinary heritage.

 

1. Egbe and Steamed Fish

Egbe, a dish made from peeled melon seeds, is a classic in Benue State, especially among the Tiv people. The melon seeds are ground into a smooth paste and cooked into a hearty dish. It’s often served with freshly steamed fish caught from the rivers of Benue.

The fish is lightly seasoned to enhance its natural taste. The combination of Egbe and fish offers a healthy and wholesome meal, perfect for lovers of simple, natural flavours.

 

2. Nyam Kpee (Boiled Yam with Sesame Seed Sauce)

Yam is a staple food in Benue, and Nyam Kpee is a traditional favourite. This dish features boiled yam paired with sesame seed sauce. Sesame seeds are roasted, ground, and mixed with spices to create a rich sauce that enhances the yam’s natural taste.

This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy Benue’s agricultural richness in its purest form.

 

3. Cassava Akpu and Beniseed Soup

 

Cassava Akpu is a typical meal in many parts of Nigeria. However, in Benue, it is paired with Beniseed soup, a local delicacy made from sesame seeds. The soup is creamy, flavourful, and often enriched with smoked fish or bush meat for added depth.

Beniseed soup is a must-try dish in Benue State, and it perfectly represents the state’s love for traditional flavours.

ALSO READ: List of Nigerian Foods You Must Try

4. Acha (Fonio) Porridge

Acha, also known as Fonio, is a small, nutrient-rich grain popular in Benue. It is cooked into an Iye porridge, which is light, creamy, and perfect for breakfast. Some people sweeten it with honey or garnish it with groundnuts for extra flavour.

If you’re health-conscious, this dish is an excellent choice because it’s gluten-free, low in calories, and nutritious.

 

5. Dooshima (Steamed Bean Pudding)

Dooshima is Benue State’s version of steamed bean pudding. It uses black-eyed peas blended with onions, peppers, and spices. The beans are then wrapped in leaves and steamed to perfection.

This dish is portable and filling, making it a favourite among farmers and workers. It’s not just a meal but a cultural experience.

 

6. Ode (Corn Meal)

Ode, a corn-based dish similar to polenta, is another Benue staple. Corn is ground into a paste, cooked, and served with soups like Egbe or Beniseed soup.

Ode reflects the versatility of maize in Benue State and is a dish that most people will likely find in their homes.

 

7. Agidi and Goat Meat Pepper Soup

Agidi, made from fermented corn starch, is a smooth pudding-like dish that pairs wonderfully with goat meat pepper soup. The pepper soup is spicy and flavourful, made using local spices like Uda (Negro pepper) and Gbafilo seeds, which are unique to the region.

This combination is a top choice for special occasions and gatherings, delighting your taste buds.

 

8. Tiv Groundnut Soup

Groundnut soup is a popular meal in Benue State, especially among the Tiv people. It is made by grinding roasted peanuts into a paste and cooking it with spices, vegetables, and proteins like smoked fish or meat.

This dish is typically served with fufu, pounded yam, or rice. The creamy, nutty flavour makes it one of the must-try dishes of Benue State.

 

9. Waina (Masa)

Waina, or Masa, is a fluffy rice-based cake favourite across Northern Nigeria, including Benue State. It’s made from a fermented mixture of rice, sugar, and yeast cooked in special pans to achieve its iconic round shape.

In Benue, Waina is often served with a spicy groundnut soup or honey for dipping, creating a delightful contrast of sweet and savoury flavours. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or as a light snack during the day.

10. Genger (Palm Nut Soup)

Genger is a rich soup made from palm nuts cooked and pounded to extract their juice. The soup is then cooked with spices, vegetables, and proteins like bush meat or dried fish.

 

The Essence of Benue Cuisine

Benue State’s food is more than just sustenance; it reflects the people’s culture, history, and deep connection to the land. These must-try dishes of Benue State are delicious and tell stories of tradition and innovation.

What sets Benue cuisine apart is its reliance on fresh, natural ingredients sourced directly from farms and rivers. Every meal feels authentic, making it a culinary adventure like no other.

 

Planning Your Food Adventure in Benue

If you’re visiting Benue, exploring local markets is a great way to start your food journey. You’ll find fresh yams, sesame seeds, millet, and more—all ingredients that form the backbone of Benue cuisine.

Remember to visit restaurants or street food vendors to try traditional dishes. The locals are always eager to share their food and culture with visitors.

 

Bringing Benue Cuisine to Your Kitchen

Can’t make it to Benue just yet? You can still recreate some of its flavours in your home by recreating some of these dishes. Ingredients like yam, soybeans, palm oil, and groundnuts are widely available in markets across Nigeria and beyond.

Here are some tips:

• Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Don’t shy away from traditional spices like Uda or Gbafilo—they make a big difference.
• Try using leaves like banana leaves to steam dishes like Dooshima for that authentic flavour.

Food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to connect with people and their stories. Benue State’s dishes invite you to experience its warmth, hospitality, and love for good food. So take that culinary journey through Benue, and savour every bite!