The African cake, which is closely related to the popular pound cake, comes with its own unique spin. Across West Africa, almost every family boasts of a cherished recipe for this mouth-watering delicacy, with variations that are as diverse as the families themselves.
Regardless of the slight differences in preparation methods from one household to another, the moment you take that first bite, there’s no mistaking it – you’re definitely savouring the unparalleled taste of our very own African cake.
Prep Time: 15 mins.
Cook Time: 30 mins.
Total Time: 45 mins.
Servings: 10 individuals
Ingredients
• Ten big eggs
• Four cups of all-purpose flour
• Two cups of butter
• One tablespoon of vanilla extract
• Two cups of sugar
• ½ teaspoon of nutmeg
• One tablespoon of vanilla extract
• ½ cup of milk
Method
1. Start by smearing your baking pan with a bit of butter and dusting it lightly with flour; put it away for use later.
2. Get your flour, baking powder and nutmeg together in a bowl and mix them well. Once they’re properly combined, keep this bowl aside too.
3. Place 4 sticks of butter (which should be at room temperature) in your mixing bowl, add the sugar and blend them together until you achieve a smooth, fluffy and creamy texture.
4. Next, introduce the eggs, but remember to do this one at a time. Make sure to mix each egg well into the creamy mixture before adding the next one.
5. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla as well.
6. Now comes the time to alternate – add a bit of the flour mixture, mix it in, then add a bit of milk, mix it in, and continue in this pattern until everything is well combined.
7. It’s time to bake! Pour your cake mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for between 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s beautifully golden and has a caramelised edge.
8. You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the centre of the cake – if it comes out clean, your cake is ready to be enjoyed.
9. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Ogbono soup
Ogbono soup is a delightful and flavourful Nigerian soup that is quite straightforward to make. This robust and appetizing stew is prepared using Ogbono seeds, also known as wild mango seeds, and it’s generously filled with assorted meats and fish, all cooked gently in a savoury, light broth.
Prep Time: 5 mins.
Cook Time: 30 mins.
Total Time: 35 mins.
Servings: 6 individuals
Ingredients
• One tablespoon of ground crayfish
• Two stock cubes
• One cup of stock fish
• Fish or meat of choice
• One cup of blended ogbono
• Four cups of stock beef
• Salt to taste
• Ugwu kale
• ¾ cup of periwinkle
• 1/3 cup of palm oil
• ½ tablespoon of red pepper
Method
1. Begin by chopping the beef, washing it thoroughly and placing it in a pot. Season it with salt, bullion powder or stock cubes. Include diced onions and red chili flakes, then let it cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your desired meat tenderness.
2. As the meat nears readiness, introduce the stockfish into the pot and allow it to cook until it becomes soft, typically around 5 minutes.
3. Grind the Ogbono seeds and incorporate them into the pot of simmering meat. Ensure there’s ample broth in the pot, approximately four cups, to begin with. Stir continuously until the Ogbono seeds completely dissolve in the broth.
4. Mix in the periwinkles, crayfish, and palm oil, and let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and then introduce your choice of leafy greens. Allow the soup to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
6. It’s ready to be served! Enjoy it with your favourite “swallow” dishes like Amala, wheat, Pounded Yam, Eba, and others.
7. Savour your meal!
