Iru, also known as locust bean or dawadawa, is a traditional African spice. It is amazing in dishes of different kinds. But not so many persons know how to use Iru to sweeten their soups.
Why is Iru becoming more popular?
There is an increasing awareness of the ingredients in your seasoning cubes. These compounds – MSG, sugar, and the preservatives – in these seasoning cubes may not be healthy for humans, especially if consumed over a long period of time (1).
As a result, people are seeking alternative natural seasoning compounds.
Iru is one of such alternative ingredients that could be in your natural home made seasoning.
It is used in many West African cuisines, particularly Nigerian and Ghanaian cuisines.
Also, it is made from fermented locust bean seeds and has a strong, distinctive flavour that is savory, slightly bitter, and umami-rich.
Interestingly, Iru is rich in nutrients and it is one ingredient that helps you when you want to switch from using seasoning cubes (2).
Here are some tips on how to use Iru as a spice in your cooking:
1. Wash And Iru Directly As Is
This is one way people in some western Nigeria states use this spice.
Get a wet Iru wash it thoroughly to ensure the salt used in preserving it comes off. also ensure there is no sand.
After washing, add the Iru to the soup or food you are cooking.
2. Crush Or Grind
Most people who produce Iru often dry it to ensure it lasts long. However, the challenge here is whether.
So, you could find Iru in small, hard, irregularly-shaped blocks or balls.
To use it as a spice, you’ll need to break it down into smaller pieces.
You can do this by crushing it with a mortar and pestle, or grinding it in a spice grinder or blender until it becomes a coarse or fine powder, depending on your preference.
You will take few table spoon and add to your soup or stew depending on what you prefer to have it in.
3. Toasting
Toasting iru before using it in your recipe can enhance its flavour.
Heat a dry pan over medium heat and add the crushed or ground iru.
Toast it for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and slightly darker in color.
Be careful not to burn it, as it can turn bitter. Some persons also place in charcoal fire for few minutes.
4. Flavor Enhancer
This is one of the other ways to use Iru.
The spice is often used as a flavour enhancer in soups, stews, sauces, and rice dishes.
It can add depth, richness, and complexity to your dishes, similar to how other umami-rich ingredients like fish sauce or soy sauce are used in other cuisines.
5. Seasoning
Also, Iru can be used as a seasoning in marinades, rubs, or spice blends for meat, fish, or vegetables.
Mix it with other spices, herbs, and seasonings to create your own unique blend.
It is one of the ingredients in our natural seasoning.
6. Substitution
If you can’t find Iru, you can substitute it with other ingredients that have a similar flavor profile, such as fermented soybean paste (e.g., miso), fermented shrimp paste, or fish sauce.
However, keep in mind that these substitutions may not provide the exact same taste as Iru, so, adjust the quantity accordingly and taste as you go.
7. Start Small
Iru has a strong flavour and it is one of the reasons people who know about it and don’t use it do so.
As a result, it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preferences.
Add a little at a time and taste as you go, as it can quickly overpower other flavors in your dish.
8. Complementary Ingredients
This spice pairs well with other common West African ingredients like crayfish, smoked fish, palm oil, onions, and tomatoes.
Consider using them in your recipes along with Iru to create an authentic West African flavor profile.
Remember that Iru has a unique flavour that may not be familiar to everyone.
So, it’s always a good idea to inform your guests or diners if you’re using it in a dish.
With its distinctive taste, this spice can add depth and complexity to your African-inspired dishes and elevate your culinary creations to a whole new level.
This is how you can use Iru in your dishes. Please, share this helpful article with your friends and loved ones.