Africa

Iru

Parkia biglobosa, alkaline-fermented seed.

Fermented seed.

Part Used

Fermented, sold moist (iru pete, softer) or as firmer dried balls (iru woro).

Form

Local / Regional Names

Yoruba name for the same fermented locust bean product as dawadawa; classified locally into iru woro (used in stews) and iru pete (used in ewedu and egusi soup).

Countries / Cuisines

Southwestern Nigeria (Yoruba-speaking areas) primarily, though the product circulates nationally.

Flavor & Aroma

As dawadawa – pungent, savory, cheese-and-fermented-fish-like.

Culinary Uses

Same umami-building role as dawadawa.

Classic Dishes

Ewedu soup; egusi soup; assorted Yoruba stews.

Pairings

Palm oil, crayfish, chile.

Timing

As dawadawa – add early to mellow the pungency.

Storage

As dawadawa.

Substitutions

As dawadawa.