In the heart of Iseyin, a quaint village in the Western region of Nigeria, the air is charged with anticipation and excitement. It is the eve of the annual Egúngún festival, celebrating ancestral spirits marked by vibrant music, dance, and culinary delights. Among the numerous preparations, one dish stands out as a symbol of tradition and community: Ekuru.
At dawn, the courtyard of Ìyálóde, the esteemed leader of the village women, buzzes with communal activity. Sheltered by an ancient baobab tree, this courtyard becomes the epic centre of the day’s preparations. Adorned in splendid Aso-oke fabrics, women gather with warm greetings and a shared sense of purpose. Their hands, though calloused, work with a practised gentleness, embodying the essence of tradition. Overseeing this symphony of preparation is Ìyálóde, renowned throughout Iseyin for her exceptional Ekuru—a recipe meticulously passed down through generations.
The process begins with black-eyed peas soaked overnight in large clay pots until soft and swollen. With the break of dawn, these beans are drained and carefully transferred into a wooden mortar, ready to be transformed into the cherished dish that unites the community.
With rhythmic precision, the women take turns pounding the beans with heavy pestles. The sound of the pestles hitting the mortar creates a steady, hypnotic beat that echoes through the courtyard. The beans are transformed into a smooth paste, a testament to the strength and skill of the women. Next, the paste is transferred into a large calabash bowl. Ìyálóde adds a pinch of salt, enhancing the natural flavour without overpowering it. The mixture is then carefully spooned onto fresh banana leaves, which have been washed and cut into squares. Each dollop of bean paste is wrapped tightly in the leaf, forming neat little parcels.
While the Ekuru steams, the village women prepare other side dishes. Some slice ripe plantains for frying, while others grind fresh peppers for a spicy sauce. The courtyard is a symphony of activity, with each woman playing her part in preparing a feast that will bring joy to the entire village.
Finally, the Ekuru is ready. Ìyálóde opens the pot, and a cloud of fragrant steam billows out. The banana leaves are unwrapped, revealing soft, fluffy cakes with a delicate texture and rich bean flavour. The women arrange the Ekuru on large trays, garnishing them with fried plantains and spicy pepper sauce.
As the sun sets and the festival begins, the villagers gather in the central square. The air is filled with music and laughter as people dance in colourful costumes, honouring their ancestors. The Ekuru, now a hallmark of the feast, is enjoyed by all. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care that went into its preparation, a taste of tradition and togetherness. In Iseyin, Ekuru is more than just food. It’s a symbol of heritage, a dish that brings people together in celebration. With their skilled hands and generous hearts, the village women ensure that this beloved tradition continues, passing down the recipe and the joy of Ekuru to future generations.
Ekuru has transcended its roots in Iseyin and has become a beloved food across Nigeria. Thanks to its simple ingredients and rich flavours, it has captured the hearts and cravings of people from various regions. In bustling urban centres like Lagos and Abuja, Ekuru can be found in local eateries and upscale restaurants, bridging the gap between tradition and modern cuisine. Food festivals and cultural events have played a significant role in making Ekuru popular, as chefs and home cooks showcase their unique takes on this traditional food. Furthermore, social media has also helped spread the word, with food bloggers and influencers sharing their love for Ekuru, making it a cherished part of Nigeria’s diverse food scene.
Do you want to learn how to prepare Ekuru? Without much ado, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s prepare to cook up something extraordinary. Let’s dive into the world of Ekuru and transform your next meal into a celebration of taste and tradition!
How to Prepare Ekuru
Here’s a simple and authentic recipe to prepare Ekuru, the Nigerian steamed bean cake:
Ingredients
- 2 cups (Beans) black-eyed peas
- One small onion (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons salt
- Banana leaves or aluminum foil for wrapping
Method
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Place the black-eyed peas in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 6 hours to soften.
Step 2: Prepare the Beans
Drain the soaked beans and remove the husks by rubbing them between your hands. This will help achieve a smoother texture. You can also use a food processor to blend the beans if you prefer a quicker method.
Step 3: Blend the Beans
Transfer the peeled beans to a blender or food processor. Add a small onion if using, and blend into a smooth, thick paste. Add some water if needed, but the mixture should be relatively thick.
Step 4: Season
Stir in salt to taste. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Prepare the Banana Leaves
If using banana leaves, rinse them and cut them into squares large enough to wrap the bean paste. If banana leaves are unavailable, you can use aluminium foil. Wrap the Ekuru by spooning a portion of the bean paste onto the centre of each banana leaf square or piece of foil. Fold the edges of the leaf or foil to enclose the paste completely, forming a neat parcel.
Step 6: Steam the Ekuru
Place the wrapped parcels in a steaming or large pot with a steamer basket. Steam over medium heat for 30-45 minutes or until the Ekuru is firm and cooked.
Step 7: Serve
Unwrap the Ekuru and let it cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed alone or with a spicy pepper sauce, fried plantains, or any side you choose.
As you savour the final bite of your homemade Ekuru, you’re not just tasting a delicious dish but experiencing a piece of Nigerian heritage passed down through generations. Each tender, flavorful bite connects you to the heart of tradition and the warmth of community gatherings. By mastering the art of preparing Ekuru, you’ve brought a slice of cultural richness into your kitchen, transforming a simple recipe into a celebration of flavour and history. So, whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting meal or sharing it with loved ones, remember that with every serving, you’re keeping a cherished tradition alive and adding your own story to its legacy.