>> Ugba: A delicacy with benefits

Text by Eseohe Ebhota bhota @sleek_diva88 f you’ve never had a plate of ugba then please allow me inform you that you’ve been missing out on a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also very tasty and filling.

Ugba is a salad eaten in the South-East Nigeriaa especially at ceremonial al occasions. Before it is eaten, it undergoes extensivensive fermentation. This meal l which was native to only those of f the Eastern origin has become a delicacyacy in other tribes on the other side of the Niger, especially in the Federal Capital Territory (F.C.T).

However, it’s not just about its taste (though the taste is important if you want to enjoy it). I decided to write about it because of it health benefits.

Ugba also known as “African oil bean seeds” contain essential fatty acids within the seed oil, as well as many minerals, particularly magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, phosphorus and calcium, and trace amounts of vitamins.

Speaking to YOUTHVILLE, a resident of Kubwa who gave her name as Mrs Adah hails from Benue state says she loves ugba a lot. “Infact, Ugba is one of my favourite Nigerian dish. I was introduced to it by an Igbo friend. After eating it for the first time in her house, I made sure I learnt how to make it”.

It is a very good source of anti-microbial and wound healing agents; and the leaf extracts help to stop diarrhea. Researchers have also found the African oil bean seed is rich in protein and it could be used as alternative source of protein in diet/protein supplement.

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