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Trying to Conceive Recipe

Evening meal

Ukwa — African breadfruit porridge with vegetables

Ukwa is African breadfruit seed, particularly associated with south-eastern Nigeria, cooked slowly into a thick savoury porridge. It provides plant protein, fibre and iron, and is finished here with plenty of green leaves.

Prep
15 min
Cook
60 min
Total
75 min
Portions
4
  • Moderate
  • Trying to conceive
  • Preparing for pregnancy
  • Vegetarian
  • Fibre-rich
  • Iron-containing
  • Folate-containing
  • Budget-friendly
Bowl of Nigerian ukwa African breadfruit porridge with green leafy vegetables

Make this recipe

Portions

Ingredient quantities update automatically. Cooking times may need a little adjustment when you change the batch size.

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Only swaps that keep this recipe pregnancy-safe are offered. Allergen information below updates when you choose one.

Ingredients

For 4 portions. Tick items as you go — nothing is changed for anyone else.

This recipe contains foods that can contribute to a varied and balanced diet during pregnancy.

Method

  1. Step 1. Rinse the ukwa well and bring to the boil in the water. Skim off any foam.
  2. Step 2. Simmer, covered, for 45–55 minutes, topping up with hot water as needed, until the seeds are soft and beginning to break down.
  3. Step 3. Stir in the onion, pepper, palm oil and crayfish if using, and cook for a further 8 minutes.
  4. Step 4. Add the washed ugu leaves and cook for 3 minutes only, so they stay green.
  5. Step 5. Season lightly and serve on its own or with a small portion of boiled plantain.

Allergens for your selection

  • Contains: Crustaceans

Ingredient brands and substitutions can change allergen content. Always check the labels on the products you buy.