Nutrition
Yake Yake
‘Yake Yake’ is a traditional Ghanaian dish from the Volta Region made from steamed, grated cassava
It is similar to Attieke but typically steamed in a different, more rustic, or water-free style
Ingredients
-4 tubes of cassava
-4 tablespoonfuls of salt
Preparation
–Peel the cassava tubers, remove the fibrous inner core, and wash thoroughly to remove soil and starch
– Grate the cassava using a blender or grater until it is fine and grainy
–Place the grated cassava into a muslin or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible
–Squeeze cassava through a strainer to separate coarse chunks, ensuring a fine, powdery texture
– Line a steamer (or a pot with a perforated insert) with a cheesecloth. Pour the cassava flakes into the cloth, forming a dome shape
– Steam for about 3–4 minutes until fluffy
–Turn the ‘Yake Yake’ out onto a plate. It should appear as a soft, cake-like dome
-Pair with tilapia, hot pepper, and sliced onions for a complete, authentic Ghanaian meal.
The cassava plant (Cassava) is a perennial woody shrub with edible roots rich in Nutrients with a higher carbohydrate content than rice and corn.
Used to make traditional tapioca flour but also the key ingredient for a diverse range of common products including sweeteners, alcohol, confectionery, animal feeds, personal care and cosmetics and many other commercial, pharmaceutical and industrial uses.
The best part is that this plant can survive for very long in soil that is poor in quality. Cassava is thought to improve health by boosting immunity and regulating digestion.
The root of the plant is rich in vitamin C, while the leaves contain beta-carotene, lysine, and other compounds beneficial to the skin and metabolism. Below are the various possible benefits of Cassava.
– Cassava sugar is healthier than sucrose
-Improves digestive system, weight loss
-Boost energy and improves brain functions
– Strengthens immunity
– Prevents cancer
– Lowers blood pressure
– Supports healthy muscles
– Helps prevent rheumatic disease
– Healthy eyesight
Ingredients
-Oil
-1 large onion
-2 cups of rice
-Salt
-2 cups of wheat
Preparation
-In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-low heat
-Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and turns golden brown
-Wash rice and wheat and put into pan. Sauté for two to three minutes, until toasty and fragrant
-Add water and salt and allow to boil.
– Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
-Taste the rice/wheat; if it is still a bit firm, add a few more tablespoons of water and cook a few more minutes.
-When the rice/wheat is ready, take it off the fire and serve hot
Benefits of wheat
–Improves digestion: High levels of insoluble fibre- wheat promotes regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut microbiome.
-Supports heart health: Whole-grain wheat helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, reduces blood pressure, and decreases the risk of stroke and heart disease.
-Aids weight management: Complex carbohydrates and dense fibre slow digestion, increase feelings of fullness, and help prevent sharp blood sugar spikes.
-Lowers type 2 diabetes risk: Steady glucose release and minerals like magnesium improve insulin sensitivity.
– Provides essential vitamins and minerals: Wheat supplies B vitamins, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium, which help build bones and boost immune function.
–Delivers Antioxidants: Compounds like phenolic acids, ferulic acid, and lutein protect cells from oxidative stress and support eye health.
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