Everyday meals · Nigeria

Asaro

Name: Asaro
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 3–4
Cuisine: Nigeria
Ingredients: 3 medium tomatoes; 2 red bell peppers; 2 scotch bonnet chile peppers; 1 medium onion; ½ cup palm oil or vegetable oil; 2–3 seasoning cubes; Salt to taste; 200 g protein, such as fresh fish, meat, or smoked fish (optional); 4 cups water or stock; 1 medium (about 1 kg) yam, peeled and cubed; Leafy vegetables such as spinach or ugu (optional)

Asaro, also known as yam porridge is a traditional Nigerian dish made by cooking yam in a richly seasoned sauce of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and oil. It is particularly popular among the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria but is enjoyed throughout the country. The dish is known for its soft texture and rich flavor. During cooking, part of the yam breaks down into the sauce, creating a thick and hearty porridge. Asaro may be prepared with fish, meat, vegetables, or seafood, and it is served hot.

Published October 16, 2026

EST. TOTAL TIME40 min

DIFFICULTYMedium

SERVES3–4

Time and difficulty are editorial estimates; allow extra time for your equipment and experience.

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What you’ll need

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Let’s make it

Step 1

Blend the tomatoes, peppers, and onion into a smooth purée.

Step 2

Heat the oil in a pot and add the purée. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

Stir in seasoning cubes, salt, and any protein being used.

Step 4

Stir in the water and bring to a boil.

Step 5

Gently stir in the cubed yam. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the yam becomes soft and some of it has broken down to thicken the dish.

Step 6

Add leafy vegetables if desired and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes.

Step 7

Adjust seasoning and remove from heat.

Asaro

What you’ll need

Let’s make it

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