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

Make this recipe
Swap an ingredient
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
- Step 1. Rinse the ukwa well and bring to the boil in the water. Skim off any foam.
- 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.
- Step 3. Stir in the onion, pepper, palm oil and crayfish if using, and cook for a further 8 minutes.
- Step 4. Add the washed ugu leaves and cook for 3 minutes only, so they stay green.
- 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.
