Some who have not eaten this popular swallow will be asking questions like what does pounded yam taste like?
Pounded yam is one of the most eaten swallows in Nigeria. It was traditionally made by pounding boiled yam with a mortar and pestle till it is fluffy like a fufu swallow.
But presently due to the stress of pounding yam from the scratch, the powered forms of yam have been made available that you will just have to stir with hot water to make it look like the traditional one.
Although those that have tasted both still don’t believe that the powdered one is anything like the original one.
In this article on what does pounded yam taste like, you get to know the actual taste of pounded yam, how to make pounded yam, and the origin of pounded yam.
Where Did Pounded Yam Originate From?
Pounded yam or Íyàn is a Nigerian food native to the Yoruba, Igbo, Ebira, and Tiv ethnic groups. It is traditional food.
It is prepared by pounding boiled yam with a mortar and pestle. Pounded yam is similar to mashed potatoes but heavier.
The Ijesas in Osun State as well as the Tivs and Idomas in Benue State are known to have a special preference for the consumption of pounded yam.
Presently, other countries have also adopted this traditional food. Countries like Togo and Ghana also eat pounded yam.
What Is Pounded Yam Made of?
As the name applies, the traditional swallow is made of yam. Pounded yam is made of yam that is been peeled, boiled, and pounded.
And just like yam, it is white in color. It doesn’t need to be added anything to get to its nice texture.
It is best served hot with Egusi soup depending on your preference.
How To Make Pounded Yam With Mortar And Pestle
We cannot talk about what does pounded yam taste like without talking about how to make pounded yam.
Making pounded yam is very easy and simple. With the steps described below, you will be able to make it perfect.
Also, note that while boiling the yam salt should not be added due to the nice taste that the yam has already.
Ingredients
First I will list out the ingredients that are needed to make a perfect pounded yam.
- One piece of yam
- Water
Utensils
Below are some of the utensils needed;
- Medium-sized pot
- Mortar
- Pestle
- Knife
Direction And Preparation
- Peel the yam carefully and cut it into smaller pieces.
- Wash the yam two times and add to the pot.
- Add water to the pot and set on the heat on gas, stove, or firewood.
- Leave to boil for 10 – 15 mins.
- Wash and dry the mortar and pestle.
- Separate the water from the yam and transfer the yam into your mortar.
- Pound the yam to get a rough texture.
- Continue pounding until the yam starts getting sticking to the pestle.
- Add water and continue pounding till the texture is soft, fluffy, and stretchy
- Pounded yam is set to be served with your favorite soup or stew.
How To Make Pounded Yam From Powder
Do you know that yam now has a powdered form? And you can use this powdered yam to get the pounded yam you so desire.
First, you need to buy the pounded yam flour from any market or shop of your choice, then follow the steps I will give you to make the perfect pounded yam without stress.
- Boil water in a kettle.
- Mix your pounded yam powder in a bowl with water till it is in a runny form just like the mixture of pap.
- Pour the mixture into a small pot or bowl.
- Add the hot water and mix properly till it gets thick.
- Mix properly.
- Serve your already made pounded yam with soup or stew of your choice.
What Does Pounded Yam Taste Like?
Due to the fact that you have not eaten pounded yam before, are you inquisitive to know what pounded yam taste like?
Pounded yam taste like yam since it is a product of yam. And since nothing is added while boiling it, pounded yam has just the rich yam flavor taste.
Pounded yam as we explained above, has a soft, fluffy, and stretchy texture. And it is best served with soup or stew depending on what you want.
Is Pounded Yam Fufu?
Fufu might mean different things to different people in other parts of the world.
But in Nigeria, Fufu is known as the food processed from fermented cassava tuber. Some people call it Loi Loi, while some call it Akpu or fufu.
Generally, all swallows in Nigeria are referred to by most as fufu. But in all, while talking to someone about fufu specify the one you are talking about.
Conclusion On What Does Pounded Yam Taste Like
With this article on what does pounded yam taste like, you can be able to explain to someone that is yet to taste pounded yam how it tastes like.
Yam can be found anywhere around the country. Therefore it is possible to prepare at any time of the day with just muscular strength.
But if you don‘t also want to stress yourself, you can also check out how to make pounded yam from the powder above.