In the vibrant culinary landscape of Nigeria, Chef Nitaa stands out as a beacon of creativity and passion.
Known for her unique Afro-fusion recipes, she seamlessly blends traditional Nigerian flavors with global influences, creating dishes that resonate with diverse palates. Her journey is not just about cooking; it’s about cultural expression and innovation in the kitchen.
Who is Chef Nitaa?
Olusola Layi-Balogun, widely recognized as Chef Nitaa, is a multifaceted chef, restaurateur, and herbalist. With a diploma in culinary arts, her passion for food drives her to explore new gastronomic frontiers. After culinary school, her desire to impress her family led her to experiment with flavors, ultimately crafting Afro-fusion dishes that celebrate both local and international cuisines. Her brand, Gourmet Experiences by Chef Nitaa, reflects her commitment to mentoring aspiring chefs and enhancing the restaurant industry in Nigeria.
How to make some Afro-fusion recipes
Chef Nitaa’s recipes are a testament to her innovative spirit. Here are some of the steps to creating some of her standout dishes:
Asun Lasagna
1. Prepare the sauce:
- Combine diced peppered goat meat, bell peppers, carrots, onions, herbs, and seasoning in a pot.
- Add red wine and a mix of tomato sauce, paste, and crushed tomatoes.
- Let it simmer.
2. Boil lasagna sheets:
- Boil lasagna sheets in salted water until al dente, adding olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Make cheese sauce:
- Prepare a roux-based mozzarella cheese sauce.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Layer meat sauce, noodles, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used (aim for three layers).
5. Bake:
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.
- Uncover for the last 10 minutes for a crusty top.
6. Cool and serve:
- Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving. Optionally sprinkle with herbs and extra cheese.
Caribbean Rice
1. Prepare your ingredients:
- Boil, dice, and fry beef; dice bell peppers, carrots, and onions; fry plantains; parboil rice.
2. Blend aromatics:
- Blend ginger, garlic, and onions together.
3. Make sauce:
- Combine tomato-based sauce with blended aromatics and browning sauce in a pot.
4. Cook rice:
- Mix parboiled rice into the sauce; add boiling water and beef stock.
- Allow to simmer while seasoning to taste.
5. Combine ingredients:
- Stir in fried beef, plantains, and sautéed veggies into the rice mixture.
6. Serve:
- Once combined thoroughly, serve hot, and enjoy!
Dundun Croquettes
A take on fried yam and croquette which is a word derived from the French word croquer, meaning “to crunch.” This dish is packed with minced beef and is truly a way to appreciate two cultures in one bite. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Start by making the minced meat
Here’s what you would need to make the perfect minced meat
- Minced beef
- Bell peppers and Carrots
- Onions and peppers
- Herbs and Seasoning
- Red wine
- Combine in a pan and cook. Start with your aromatics (onions, ginger, garlic, leeks, etc.), then brown beef and add other ingredients.
2. Boil yam alternatively
- Once the yam is soft, allow it to cool; it needs to be slightly warm; however, if it is too hot, it will cook the egg.
- Mash the yam, then add salt, herbs, peppers, and eggs. You can add cheese if you’re a fan.
- Mix until well incorporated.
3. From there, we add the filling
- Wet your hands, then scoop up a portion of yam and flatten it, leaving a dent for the minced meat filling.
- Once filled, close the croquette and roll it into a log shape, ensuring the edges are closed. Set aside on a tray. Repeat until all the croquettes are formed.
4. Fry till Golden!
- Place three to five croquettes at a time into your pre-heated oil, depending on the size of the pan, and gently stir as they cook for three minutes or until golden brown
- When each one is ready, remove the croquettes with a slotted spoon. Drain each batch on a plate with paper towels and repeat until all the potato croquettes are cooked.
5. Serve Hot!
- Serve immediately as is or with a simple dip.
