Ibibio culture and society: Ekpang Nkukwo, a Cultural Delicacy in Ibibio Land.

Ekpang Nkukwo is a traditional dish that originates from the Efik and Ibibio tribes in the eastern part of Nigeria. It is a cultural delicacy that is highly valued in Ibibio land and is often served during special occasions such as traditional marriages, festivals, and celebrations.Having close ties with the Cameroon,the Bantu tribe Bakweri,also relish in this cocoyam based meal made with a combination of water yam.Its similar to Ifokore/Ikokore of the Ijebu people which is made with only wateryam and without vegetables
This special meal as it is is time consuming but worth the while when taking in every yummy bit. Besides its famous taste,it is also known as the “love portion”.

Ingredients

The main ingredients used in preparing Ekpang Nkukwo include:

– Cocoyam
– Water yam
– Cocoyam leaves
– Periwinkles(Shelled)
– Fish (Smoked or fresh)
– Crayfish
– Pepper
– Maggi
– Palm oil
– Onions (optional)
– Salt
– Vegetables
– Beef

Preparation

– chop up the beef and put into a pot with the cleaned shelled periwinkle and season with Onions and seasoning to taste, cook till soft.The stock will be used in making the dish.
– Peel the cocoyam and cut into large sizes and leave them in water till ready to be used
– Shred the cocoyam or pulse with a blender to give that grated feel. When done,add a little salt and leave till ready to be used
– Get the leaves ready for use by tearing them up into medium pieces.Ensure that there are no holes.
– The next step is to oil a large pot with a 1/2 cup of palm oil
– Put a tablespoon of grated cocoyam mixture in the torn leaf and wrap up firmly that the cocoyam is not coming out at all
– Nicely seat the wrapped up cocoyam in the oil pot placing them in a circle with a hole in the middle
– In another pot,put water and bring to a boil.Add meat, Onions, crayfish,salt pepper, seasoning cubes and palm oil.
– Leave to cook for ten minutes.When the Ekpang is now solid,add the stock so it does not burn with a few cup of water .
– Allow to cook on medium heat for 45 minutes and then, your dish is ready for consumption .

Cultural Significance

Ekpang Nkukwo is more than just a meal in Ibibio land; it is a symbol of love, respect, and cultural heritage. It is often served to royalty and is a required dish in the “Fattening Room” where brides are prepared for marriage. The dish is also served during traditional marriages as a symbol of unity and love between the couple.

In Conclusion,

Ekpang Nkukwo is a cultural delicacy that is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ibibio people. Its preparation and consumption are steeped in cultural significance, and it continues to play an important role in the cultural heritage of the Ibibio people.

Written by Oboh Promise
(Obiwannem News Correspondent from Akwa ibom state)
Date: June 13, 2024
Ubochi Afo Ani
Published by Ngozi Odoh (Obinwannem Nsukka Office Secretary)