Pap: The meal of life.

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Pap with Bean cake.

This is a basic staple all across Nigeria, eaten by both rich and poor, young and old, men and women. This meal has served generations of Nigerians providing balanced diet in a simple unassuming manner.

It is known by different names locally, this include Eko,Ogi and Akamu.Pap is the meal of choice for individuals that are down or recovering from illness. Probably my ancestors must have realised the ability of large proportion of the populace to consume this staple despite loss of appetite.

Another reason for its consumption is the fact that it is easy to prepare and could be prepared in a haste to serve.It can also be consumed with other staples such as Bean cake( Akara), Moimoi, Kuli Kuli,Beans porridge, Fried fish Cheese and other proteinous food.

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Pap and Moimoi.

Also its wide approval is due to the fact it can be made from different cereals such as Corn, Millet, Sorghum ,Wheat e.t.c. so depending on which is available in your locality the Pap is always to the rescue.

I had several bouts of Malaria growing up in Nigeria but my survival and continous triumph over the deadly disease will not be complete without the Pap and this formed the basis of my love for this essential meal.

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Recipe for Pap.

Wet Starch(Ogi, Akamu, Pap).

Water(Cold and Hot).

Sugar to taste( Optional).

Milk( Optional)

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Preparation of Pap

Heat up a suitable amount of water in a pot or kettle.

Put a sizable amount of wet starch(Ogi) in a bowl.

Crush the lumps of Ogi.

Add suitable amount of water and stir.Stir till there is no lump.

The heat on the stove should be medium to avoid lumps formation.

Just about the time the water boils, pour the Ogi and stir.

Continue stirring to avoid lumps, make sure you stir in all directions.

The mixture will thicken as it absorbs heat.

Stir till the required thickness is achieved.

Serve in a bowl.

Add sugar to taste( Optional).

Add milk(Optional).

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I hope you enjoyed the post. Its @blessedman939 again wishing you a productive week ahead.

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