Top 10 Affordable Nigerian Dishes

This blog post brings to you the top 10 affordable Nigerian dishes you could try out. Finding cheap, healthy food is a top priority in Nigeria due to the country’s extremely variable cost of living. It is totally feasible to have a fulfilling lunch without going into debt, whether you choose to prepare it at home or buy pre-made dishes.

From Jollof rice and other staples to Indomie noodles with veggies and other quick fixes, you can buy a range of nutritious Nigerian meals for N750 to N1500 and cook them yourself. These meals are affordable and easily available, making healthy eating a reality for many people on a tight budget.

The word “affordable” suggests that the price won’t break the bank, so you may buy it without worrying about how you’ll pay for it.

With a cross-sectional survey done across the six zones, here are 10 affordable Nigerian dishes that are both nutritious and pocket-friendly:

1. Jollof Rice

Jollof rice is a budget-friendly staple in many Nigerian households since it is versatile and can be made with or without protein, depending on your needs.

Ingredients: Rice, tomatoes, onions, pepper, oil, seasoning cubes.

2. Beans and Plantain

Beans are a cheap and great way to get protein. It creates a satisfying dinner when accompanied by plantains.

Ingredients: Beans, ripe or unripe plantains, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

3. Eba and Egusi Soup

You may make this thick egusi soup with or without meat, it all depends on your budget. The garri-based dish eba is both cheap and satisfying.

Ingredients: Garri (for Eba), melon seeds, palm oil, vegetables, milk curds (wara), stock fish, or meat (optional).

4. Yam Porridge (Asaro)

When yams are in season, make this cheap and filling dish of porridge.

Ingredients: Yam, palm oil, pepper, onions, spinach or other leafy greens, seasoning.

5. Okra Soup and Fufu

Cheap and healthy, okra is a great choice. When combined with Fufu, it makes for a filling dinner.

Ingredients: Okra, palm oil, crayfish, pepper, seasoning, milk curds (wara), cassava flour (for Fufu).

6. Beans and Corn Porridge (Adalu)

A cheap and hearty protein-rich dinner can be made by combining beans and maize.

Ingredients: Beans, corn, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

7. Noodles with Vegetables

Noodles are quick and cheap. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value without significantly increasing cost.

Ingredients: Instant noodles, carrots, cabbage, onions, bell peppers, eggs (optional).

8. Acha (Fonio) Porridge

Acha, a grain that doesn’t get much attention, packs a nutrient punch and makes a simple, light porridge.

Ingredients: Acha grains, vegetables, palm oil, onions, seasoning.

9. Moi Moi

Moi Moi is a versatile and protein-rich dish that can be eaten alone or as a side.

Ingredients: Beans, pepper, onions, oil, seasoning.

10. Fried Yam and Akara

A popular street food combination that is inexpensive and can serve as a breakfast or light dinner.

Ingredients: Yam, beans (for Akara), oil, pepper, and onions.

If you’re watching your spending, these budget-friendly dinners will let you eat well without breaking the bank.

Proper nutrition is essential for sustaining and improving our health. A nutritious diet provides the building blocks for a well-functioning body, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, and good fats.

In addition to supplying the fuel for everyday tasks, healthy eating can stave off chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

Eating well also has a beneficial effect on mental health, elevating mood and decreasing stress levels.

Investing in our health through good food choices guarantees a longer, better life and the ability to tackle life’s challenges with fortitude.

Frequently Asked Questions on the list of Top 10 Affordable Nigerian Dishes

Q: Are these dishes suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: Many of these dishes can be adapted to vegetarian or vegan diets by omitting meat and using plant-based alternatives.

Q: Where can I find the ingredients for these dishes?

A: The ingredients for these dishes are widely available in Nigerian markets and grocery stores.

Q: Are there any nutritional benefits to these dishes?

A: Yes, these dishes offer a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins, providing essential nutrients.

Q: Can I add protein to Jollof rice?

A: Absolutely, you can add chicken, beef, or fish to your Jollof rice.

Q: What can I substitute for palm oil in these dishes?

A: You can use vegetable oil as a substitute for palm oil.

Q: Are there any regional variations of these dishes?

A: Yes, there are variations of these dishes across different regions of Nigeria.

Q: How can I make these dishes more flavorful?

A: Experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance the taste of your dishes.

Q: Are there any side dishes that go well with these meals?

A: You can enjoy these dishes with side dishes like salad, plantain chips, or boiled eggs.