How to use fermented ingredients for richer flavors
What's the story
African cuisine employs fermented plant-based ingredients to enhance flavor and nutrition, without breaking the bank. These ingredients provide a unique twist to meals, enabling you to relish authentic African meals without spending too much. Here are a few hacks to add these fermented elements into your cooking, so that you can dive into Africa's diversity of tastes without spending much.
Cassava hack
Using fermented cassava for flavor
Fermented cassava, a staple in many African cuisines, is characterized by its tangy flavor and versatility. It can either be used to make fufu or added to stews for an extra depth of taste. To cut down cost, buy cassava in bulk and ferment it at home by soaking peeled pieces in water for three days. This way, you enhance its nutritional value, too, while keeping costs low.
Millet magic
Incorporating fermented millet into meals
Millet is yet another inexpensive grain that benefits from fermentation. In several African countries, it is used to prepare porridge or flatbreads like injera. To ferment millet at home, soak the grain overnight before grinding into a batter. This easy step not only makes it easier to digest but also adds a characteristic sour note that goes well with different dishes.
Veggie Boost
Enhancing dishes with fermented vegetables
Fermenting vegetables like cabbage or carrots can help you amp up the flavor and nutrition of your meals without driving up the cost too much. Pickling these veggies in a simple saltwater brine for a few days gives them a tangy taste, ideal for adding into salads or as delicious side dishes. It's economical and gives everyday meals a healthful boost.
Soybean sauce trick
Creating sauces with fermented soybeans
Fermented soybeans are used all over Africa as a base for sauces for their umami-rich profile. To make your own sauce from fermented soybeans, mash them (once fermented) and mix with spices such as garlic or ginger (as per preference)—an economical way of adding depth without relying on store-bought options.