And your girl has mixed feelings about the whole thing. FYI: TikTok is the jungle!
I’ve NEVER had Fufu and Egusi together and I’m not even sure why anyone tried it in the first place. I know there are better combinations but hey, I’m not going to stop anyone from eating what they want. I do believe a few things about this challenge need to be addressed to keep us happy and healthy.
For those who have already tried it and those who will in the future, here are a few thoughts the Universe needs to know moving forward:
I like that some people are brave enough to try new things/dishes and are open to new tastes. I also think the challenge couldn’t have come at a better time because all restaurants (big or small) need orders to stay open.
And are we still eating without washing our hands too? In a pandemic? I haven’t seen ONE TikTok video showing handwashing before (doing the challenge) eating. Washing hands is a big deal when it comes to eating Nigerian food without cutlery. Even in places where water is scarce. I’ve seen videos of people walking out of restaurants, getting into their cars, opening up packs and slapping on Fufu with hands that’ve been E.V.E.R.Y.W.H.E.R.E.
And who started this slapping food? I’m not sure what that’s supposed to achieve.
Africa is not a monolith. Nigeria isn’t too. There are popular dishes eaten in my country that I haven’t ever tasted because I’m still summoning courage however, it’s straight-up disrespectful to post a video of yourself gagging or puking food from another culture. No one put a gun to your head and the internet never forgets.
I’m not sure people are reviewing restaurants they buy these meals from though. All African food restaurants aren’t the same. Are you checking up on ingredients and condiments? Did you know that some Nigerian soups have nuts ground in or are prepared with groundnut oil? I observed some people buying other soups because they couldn’t get any Egusi. Last time I checked, there’s no reason we can’t have fun while being smart. And No, I will not be making anyone a pot of Egusi or Jollof rice. The nerve of you guys, lol.
Food Blogger, Sisi Jemimah has a recipe that pretty much matches my mom’s. You should try it. I made a list to help you Egusi-shop:
Egusi Shopping List
Palm oil: Small bottle from an African store
Fresh Kale & Spinach from any grocery store
Basil (optional)
Onions
Red Bell Peppers
Scotch Bonnet
Bouillon Cubes or Knorr Cubes
Chicken or Goatmeat
Shrimp
Mackerel
Btw this list works for uncomplicated Egusi soup in diaspora where some ingredients are scarce.
Leave a comment to share your favorite African soup if you’ve ever had any / Which soup you would you like to try soon / your least favorite and why?