Egusi

Description

Egusi refers to the seeds of certain melon plants, most commonly from species like Citrullus lanatus (a type of melon related to watermelon). These seeds are a staple ingredient in West African cuisine.

The seeds are typically dried and then ground into a coarse powder or paste. When cooked, egusi thickens soups and gives them a rich, slightly nutty flavor along with a grainy, hearty texture.

Egusi is best known for its use in Egusi soup, one of the most popular Nigerian dishes. The soup is usually prepared with palm oil, meats, fish, and leafy vegetables like ugu or spinach, creating a thick and satisfying meal often eaten with swallows such as pounded yam, eba, or fufu.