Herbs Commonly Used in West African Cuisine

By Jessica Rogers May 22, 2023 16 mins read 148 Views

There are many herbs commonly used in West African cuisine. They are a great way to create authentic and delicious dishes.

Some of the most common ingredients include cereal grains, okra, and peppers. They have all been introduced by various countries throughout West Africa over time.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is a dried and ground version of the fresh garlic clove. It is a staple in many cooks’ kitchens, and is used as an easy and effective way to add the savory flavor of garlic without the hassle of using fresh garlic.

Garlic powder is a great addition to dry seasoning mixes, and works well in marinades, sauces, and dry rubs. It also combines easily with other spices to make a shelf-stable mix.

Ground Allspice

Ground allspice is a spice made from a small berry that's reminiscent of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves. It's a popular addition to savory dishes and desserts alike.

Ground allspice is also often used in jerk chicken recipes. It's a good substitute for whole allspice berries when you have a shortage and need to add flavor to your West African inspired dishes.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a common ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. It's an incredibly fragrant spice, and has a unique flavor that's perfect for incorporating into West African inspired dishes.

It can be used as a seasoning or added to baked goods, coffee, tea and yogurt to boost the antioxidants in your diet. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and is a natural preservative.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant that has been used in medicine and cooking for thousands of years. Medicinally it is known to help with diabetes, menstrual problems, and other ailments.

Fenugreek is often used as a spice and thickening agent. It is also a good source of protein, iron, and fiber.

Grains of Paradise

Grains of paradise look like black pepper, but they pack a spicier, more complex flavor. They’re an exotic spice that comes from West Africa, close to historically spice-hungry Europe.

This spice is a great addition to West African inspired dishes, especially when paired with spices like cardamom and coriander. It also goes well with nutmeg and ginger. It can be used in place of black pepper or added to spice rubs, braises and spice cakes.

Grains of Selim

Grains of selim are small seed pods from a shrubby evergreen tree that grows across Africa. They have a peppery flavour and are often used as a spice in West African dishes.

They can be crushed or ground to add complexity of flavor to stews and soups. They also make a unique rub for fish, meat or vegetables.

In northern Cameroon and Nigeria, this seed is a staple ingredient in Suya, Shitto or Pepper Soup along with dried ginger and cloves. It is also one of three spices added to tea in northern Cameroon and northern Nigeria.

Bouillon

Bouillon is a popular staple ingredient in West African cuisine that enhances the flavour of soups and stews. Typically made up of salt, sugars, starch, vegetable fats, hydrolysed vegetable protein, herbs and spices, bouillon is a versatile addition to many West African inspired dishes.

Using bouillon cubes can be a cost-effective strategy to fortify meals and deliver health benefits to populations with high rates of hypertension and CVD in Sub-saharan Africa. However, bouillon is high in sodium and can have a negative impact on health when consumed in excess.

Iru

Iru is a traditional seasoning that has been used for centuries across West Africa. It is a great alternative to MSG and bouillon cubes because it is super healthy, high in protein, fats and calcium and adds a unique umami flavor.

It is also a staple in many Nigerian dishes and has been gaining popularity in other West African countries like Ghana, Senegal and Mali. It can be incorporated into soups and stews to add a depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

What plant helps with infection?

There are plants out there that help fight infections. Some even contain anti-bacterial properties. One of them is mint.

Mint has been used for centuries to treat respiratory infections such as cold symptoms and flu. Mint also supports digestion and relieves gas pains. You may find relief with peppermint tea if you have an upset stomach. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties, which make it effective against germs.

Peppermint tea contains menthol, beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients support healthy immune systems and provide energy to keep your body strong.

You can make peppermint tea at home by adding one teaspoon of dried mint leaves to boiling water. Let steep for five minutes and drink hot three times per day.

Or you can buy peppermint tea bags at any grocery store. Simply add two teaspoons of dried mint leaves to a cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink hot three times per day for best results.

What herb heals all wounds?

The answer to this question varies depending on the type and severity of the wound.

The herb comfrey (also known as knitbone) has long been used for its healing properties, particularly for skin injuries such as cuts and bruises.

Studies suggest that comfrey contains allantoin, which helps speed up healing. Other herbs commonly used for healing wounds include calendula, plantain, and yarrow. These herbs help to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding and speed up the skin's healing process.

In addition to herbs, honey has also been found to have powerful antimicrobial properties that can help prevent wound infection.

Herbs for wound care is an age-old practice that continues to be used today. However, herbs should not replace medical treatment, and always consult your doctor before using herbs for healing. With the right herbs, you can give your body the support it needs to heal naturally.

What is the difference between basil and oregano?

Both of these herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family. They share similar flavors, but the differences are obvious.

Oregano is more pungent than basil. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to foods.

Basil leaves are smaller than oregano leaves. They are also softer and less aromatic.

The two herbs are often used interchangeably. Although they are quite similar, each has its distinctive qualities.

What spices assist in recovery?

The use of spices to aid in healing is an ancient practice dating back centuries. Many spices have been used for their medicinal properties, including ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Each of these spices has unique benefits that can help with various health issues.

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used to soothe an upset stomach or relieve nausea.

Cinnamon has been found to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agents. It is even believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in helping prevent diabetes.

Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also thought to increase circulation and metabolism, which can help the body heal more quickly.

Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is beneficial in treating various conditions, from arthritis and neurological disorders to cancer.

Garlic is packed with nutrients and has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, act as antibiotic, lower cholesterol levels, and even boost the immune system.

These spices are all-natural ways to help the body heal and improve overall health. They can all be easily incorporated into food or taken in supplement form for convenience. While spices alone won't cure any ailments, they can play an essential role in aiding healing.

In addition to spices, there are also other natural remedies for healing, such as herbs, essential oils, and homeopathy. Research has shown that many of these remedies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, consider incorporating some of these natural remedies into your health routine.

Statistics

Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)
For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)

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How To

How to Use Herbs and Spices in Cooking?

Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor without adding calories. If you've been cooking for years, you already know how easy it is to make even bland foods taste delicious. Try these tips to add more flair to your dishes.

Herbs and spices are essential ingredients in any kitchen. In addition to making food taste better, they also help keep food fresh longer. From enhancing the flavors of soups and sauces to infusing drinks with exotic tastes, herbs and spices go far beyond traditional cooking.

The most important thing to remember when using herbs and spices is to use them sparingly. Even though they may seem like powerful ingredients, they have a strong scent. So, sprinkle them on top instead of piling them onto a dish.

You'll find that the best herbs and spices come in small containers. This makes them easier to measure out, so there won't be any waste. Plus, you'll save money because you won't have to buy large amounts.

Another tip is to avoid placing herbs and spices directly on hot pans. Heat will quickly dry out the herbs and spices, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Instead, place them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Use herbs and spices liberally in recipes where they naturally complement each other. For example, cinnamon pairs well with apples, while garlic complements tomatoes. Once you learn how to combine flavors, you'll be able to create your signature dishes.

Try experimenting with different herbs and spices to spice up meals. For instance, mix thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then toss the mixture with pasta, chicken, or fish.

After the meal, store leftover herbs and spices in airtight jars. This will prevent them from drying out. Also, wrap unused herbs and spices tightly in plastic wrap. They should stay fresh for at least three months.

If you're looking for ways to improve your diet, consider trying new herbs and spices. You can experiment with different blends until you discover your favorite combination. The possibilities are endless!