8 Popular Christmas Food in Nigeria Ideal for the Holidays

The festive season is here with us and if your heart is longing for something you’ve never tasted before, it’s time to try Christmas food in Nigeria.

Nigerians consider Christmas a big day and it is marked by the preparation of exceptional, well-garnished delicacies that are shared among families and communities altogether. Here we invite you to explore the flavours of a different nation with these eight popular Christmas food in Nigeria.

Table of Contents

1. Jollof Rice

Jollof Rice is one of the most loved meals in Nigeria. This delicious dish has earned its place in the culinary hall of fame and it is widely acknowledged all over the world. Christmas in Nigeria isn’t truly complete without Jollof rice being served at homes. This versatile and heartwarming dish is often accompanied with steak, grilled or fried chicken, colesaw and dodo (fried plantain).

Jollof Rice. Photo/Rozy’s Kitchen

2. Nigerian Fried Rice

The delicious jollof rice has a sibling, the fried rice, which is also loved by Nigerians. It is one of the most popular options during this festive season, thanks to its great taste. Since many people find it difficult to choose between jollof rice and the Nigerian fried rice, they are both served together sometimes.

3. White Rice and Stew

White rice and stew is another meal Nigerians enjoy eating. During this festive season, you will find many homes eating this delicacy almost every day. This is because it is easy to prepare and unlike other rice meals that lose flavour after the first day, it can be stored for an extra day. The recipe for preparing white rice and stew include the popular tomato stew, veggie chicken sauce and vegetable stew.

White rice and stew. Photo/ Mumak Kitchen.

4. Abacha

Also known as African salad, Abacha is a type of food originating with the Igbos in the south eastern part of Nigeria. It is made from dried and shredded cassava and can either be served as a main course meal or an appetizer. Abacha is delicious and makes one feel content even after consuming little because it is fibrous.

5. Ofada Rice and Stew

Ofada rice and stew is another popular Christmas food in Nigeria. The meal is a staple at Yoruba celebrations and is often cooked with bell peppers, fermented locust beans and palm oil. Ofada rice and stew has a warm, reviving flavour that will leave you craving for more. Enjoy your meal!

Ofada stew. Photo/ cookpad.com.

6. Amala and Ewedu Soup

Amala is a dark, smooth dish that is porridge-like and is often served with the flavourful Ewedu soup. The combination of Amala and Ewedu soup form a mouthwatering delicacy that will leave you craving for more. It is most common among the ibadan people, As a matter of fact it is their cultural food.

7. Fisherman Soup

Fisherman soup is another delicacy on our list of Christmas food in Nigeria. A well known dish from the southern regions of Nigeria, fisherman soup is seen as food for the affluent. It is a straightforward meal that is prepared using fish and other seafood such as lobster and catfish, depending on the taste you want.

8. Nigerian Chapman Punch

We all know that drinks are an essential part of the festivities. A common drink in Nigeria on Christmas day is the Nigerian chapman punch. Since it just requires mixing your favourite fruits to prepare, it is quite simple to create. The chapman is very refreshing and a cold cup in the morning will help start your day in style. The true origin of chapman is unknown but rumours of inception are traced to the elite Ikoyi Club in Lagos.

Nigerian Chapman Punch. Photo/ Nigerian Lazy Chef.

What Are the Christmas Traditions in Nigeria?

Christmas in Nigeria is amazing. Families come together to share traditional meals, exchange gifts, and partake in cultural rituals that have been there for years. Spending Christmas day indoors in Nigeria provides an intimate setting for storytelling, music as well as dance.

Outdoor celebrations are also amazing as there are community events, street festivals, and open-air concerts that bring people together to celebrate in a lively atmosphere.

What Is Nigerian Christmas Rice?

Jollof rice is the meal many Nigerians, including the ones in diaspora, enjoy during the Christmas season. The mouth-watering blend of spices, tomatoes and peppers slow cooked to perfection gives it a unique flavour that’s comforting and hearty.