Isu (yam - boiled plain)

Isu (Boiled Plain Yam) Recipe from Niger | Traditional African Cuisine

Region / culture: Niger | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Isu, also known as yam, is a popular root vegetable that is enjoyed in many cultures around the world. Boiled plain yam is a simple yet delicious dish that highlights the natural flavor and texture of this versatile ingredient.

History

Yams have been a staple food in many parts of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean for centuries. Boiling yams is a traditional cooking method that has been passed down through generations, allowing the natural sweetness and earthy flavor of the yam to shine through.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Slice the yams into pieces that are approximately 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) wide.
Peel the skins off the yams.
Rinse the yams.
Place the yams in a pot and add enough water to cover them.
Add about 2 tsp of salt.
Cook the yams for approximately 30 minutes, checking every 10 minutes or so to see if they are soft enough (a fork should easily go through).
Drain the yams.

Variations

Add herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic for added flavor.
Mash the boiled yam and serve as a creamy puree.
Roast the boiled yam in the oven for a crispy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel the yams before boiling to remove any tough outer skin.

- Adding salt to the water helps to enhance the flavor of the yams.

- Check the yams periodically while cooking to ensure they are not overcooked and become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Boiled yam can be enjoyed on its own as a simple side dish, or paired with a variety of toppings such as butter, salt, or pepper. It can also be served alongside grilled meats or vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling is the most common method for cooking yams, as it helps to soften the flesh and bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetable. Be sure to cook the yams until they are fork-tender for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If yams are not available, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute in this recipe. They have a similar flavor and texture, making them a suitable alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Boiled yams can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the boiled yam on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation. You can also arrange the yam slices in a decorative pattern for a visually appealing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Boiled yam pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It can also be served alongside rice or beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover boiled yam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of boiled yam contains approximately 158 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for a meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

Yams are a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your body throughout the day. A serving of boiled yam contains approximately 37 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Yams are naturally low in fat, making them a healthy choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake. A serving of boiled yam contains less than 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

While yams are not a significant source of protein, they do contain small amounts of this essential nutrient. A serving of boiled yam contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Yams are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Yams are not known to be a common allergen, making them a safe choice for those with food sensitivities or allergies.

Summary

Boiled yam is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Boiled yam is a simple and nutritious dish that highlights the natural flavor and texture of this versatile root vegetable. With a few basic ingredients and cooking techniques, you can enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish at home.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Isu, or boiled plain yam, as it is commonly known in Nigeria. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother.

My grandmother was a remarkable woman, with a wealth of knowledge when it came to traditional Nigerian cuisine. She had learned many recipes from her own mother and grandmother, passing them down through the generations. I would often spend hours in the kitchen with her, watching in awe as she effortlessly prepared delicious meals for our family.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching her peel and chop vegetables for dinner, she suddenly turned to me with a twinkle in her eye. "Today, I will teach you how to make Isu," she said, her voice filled with excitement. I had never heard of this dish before, but I was eager to learn.

My grandmother led me to the pantry, where she pulled out a large yam and a sharp knife. She explained that Isu was a simple yet delicious dish that was often served as a side dish or snack in Nigeria. The key to making perfect Isu, she said, was in the way it was cooked - boiled plain with no added ingredients.

As she carefully peeled the yam and cut it into chunks, my grandmother shared the story of how she had learned to make Isu from an old friend many years ago. The friend had taught her the traditional method of boiling the yam until it was soft and tender, then serving it hot with a drizzle of palm oil and a sprinkle of salt.

I watched intently as my grandmother placed the yam chunks into a pot of boiling water, the steam rising up in a fragrant cloud. She seasoned the water with a pinch of salt and let the yam simmer until it was fork-tender. The aromas that filled the kitchen were intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the final dish.

After draining the yam and transferring it to a serving platter, my grandmother handed me a fork and gestured for me to try a piece. The yam was soft and creamy, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on my tongue. I was amazed at how such a simple dish could be so delicious.

As I savored the flavor of the Isu, my grandmother shared more stories about her friend who had taught her the recipe. She described how they would spend hours in the kitchen together, sharing secrets and swapping recipes. It was a bond forged through a love of cooking and a shared appreciation for traditional Nigerian cuisine.

From that day on, Isu became a staple in our household. My grandmother would often prepare it for special occasions, serving it alongside other traditional dishes like Jollof rice and Egusi soup. Whenever I made Isu, I would think of my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen.

Years passed, and my grandmother eventually passed away, leaving behind a legacy of delicious recipes and cherished memories. But her spirit lived on in the dishes she had taught me to make, including the simple yet flavorful Isu.

Today, as I prepare Isu for my own family, I can't help but smile as I remember my grandmother and the day she first taught me how to make this beloved dish. The recipe may be simple, but the memories it holds are priceless. And as I take a bite of the tender yam, I am transported back to that moment in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning the art of cooking and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.