Christmas in Nigeria is a time for joy, family, and delicious foods. Many people look forward to big feasts with Jollof rice, chicken, and other treats. But rising costs can make this hard for some.
The good news, however, is you don’t need to spend too much to enjoy tasty meals. With simple planning and creativity, you can prepare delicious dishes on a budget. Here are five meals that are affordable and perfect for Christmas.
Rice Dishes
Rice is a must-have for Christmas, and Jollof rice is the favourite for many. If Jollof rice is too costly, you can try other rice options like:
Boiled Rice and Stew: Cook plain rice and serve it with tomato stew made from peppers, onions, and spices. Instead of chicken or turkey, use boiled eggs or fried fish.
Coconut Rice: Add coconut milk to your rice for a rich and flavourful meal. It’s cheaper than Jollof rice if you already have the ingredients.
Rice dishes are easy to cook and can feed a crowd, making them perfect for Christmas.
Moi Moi
Moi Moi is a simple dish made from beans. It is nutritious, filling, and affordable. You can serve it on its own or with rice. To make Moi Moi, blend peeled beans with pepper, onions, and water. Add seasoning, then steam the mixture in bowls, banana leaves, or foil. To save money, skip adding extras like fish or boiled eggs. It’s delicious even when made simply.
Efo Riro (Vegetable Soup)
Efo Riro is a tasty vegetable soup made with spinach, ugu (pumpkin leaves), or other greens. It is cooked with palm oil, peppers, onions, and spices.
Pair Efo Riro with rice, yam, or swallow (like semo, eba or fufu). Use affordable proteins like dried fish or small pieces of meat to reduce costs. It is healthy, flavourful, and budget-friendly.
Jollof Spaghetti
Jollof spaghetti is a quick and affordable alternative to Jollof rice when it comes to Christmas foods. It is made with spaghetti, tomatoes, peppers, and seasonings.
To make it budget-friendly, use tomato paste instead of fresh tomatoes. For protein, add boiled eggs, sardines, or small pieces of fish. This dish is simple to cook and loved by everyone, making it a great Christmas option.
Yam/Potato Pepper Soup
Yam or potato pepper soup is a comforting and flavourful dish perfect for Christmas. This dish combines soft chunks of yam or potatoes with a spicy broth, making it both filling and delicious.
Cook yam or potatoes in a broth seasoned with pepper soup spices, fresh peppers, onions, and bouillon cubes. Use an affordable protein like chicken parts, goat meat, or fish, depending on your budget.
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