International student Tolani shares the substitutes she found to keep enjoying the food from home while living in the UK
One of the things I miss most about my home country鈥攁side from family鈥攊s the food! As a Nigerian, food is a huge part of our culture. Nigeria has over 250 tribes/ethnic groups, so you can imagine the incredible diversity of dishes that come from just one country.
Since moving to the UK for my studies, I鈥檝e enjoyed recreating Nigerian dishes I love. Thankfully, I鈥檝e discovered shops and restaurants in 小蓝视频 that sell Nigerian ingredients and meals. However, some ingredients can be quite pricey, which is understandable since most are imported.
To keep enjoying my favourite dishes without breaking the bank, I turned to YouTube and learned how to recreate Nigerian meals using locally available British ingredients. The best part? These alternatives are affordable, easy to find in grocery stores, and often simpler to prepare.
Here are four staple Nigerian dishes you can make with British ingredients:
1. Lentil Akara/Moimoi
Akara (bean cakes) and Moimoi (steamed bean pudding) are Saturday morning staples in many Nigerian homes.
Traditionally, they are made with honey or black-eyed beans, but lentils are a fantastic alternative.
They are readily available in local UK supermarkets and require less prep time compared to beans.
Plus, lentils naturally have a colour similar to traditional Akara or Moimoi, making them an excellent substitute without compromising the look or taste.
(My homemade Akara photographed)
2. Kale Efo Riro (Vegetable Soup)
Efo Riro is a rich and flavourful vegetable soup enjoyed across different Nigerian tribes, often made with spinach or other leafy greens. In the UK, kale is a great substitute. It鈥檚 affordable, nutritious, and easily found in grocery stores. Whether paired with rice, boiled plantains, yams, potatoes, or traditional Nigerian swallows, kale Efo Riro delivers the same delicious taste with a slight twist.
3. Oats Swallow
Swallow is a starchy, dough-like dish that accompanies Nigerian soups, named after the way it is eaten鈥攕wallowed rather than chewed. Instead of yam flour, cassava flour, or plantain flour, oats can be a healthier, budget-friendly alternative. Simply blend oats into a fine powder and mix with hot water until it forms into a doughy consistency. It鈥檚 easy to prepare, nutritious, and just as satisfying as traditional swallows.
4. Tortilla Shawarma wrap
Nigerian-style shawarma is a beloved street food, known for its unique blend of flavours. While shawarma bread is usually available only in international stores, tortilla wraps serve as a perfect alternative. They are widely available in any grocery store, flexible, and strong enough to hold all the delicious fillings. You can grill, toast, or bake them to achieve that authentic shawarma texture.
These ingredient swaps prove that I don鈥檛 have to sacrifice authentic Nigerian flavours while studying abroad. They are student-budget friendly, often healthier, and save time in the kitchen. With a little creativity, you can still enjoy the taste of home, no matter where you are!