Africa’s Finest Whole Iru 70g Locust Beans

Africa’s Finest Whole Iru 70g (Fermented Locust Beans)

Africa’s Finest Whole Iru 70g is a traditional West African seasoning made from 100% natural fermented locust beans, known for its powerful umami flavour, deep aroma, and immense nutritional value. Commonly referred to as Iru in Nigeria, this fermented product is a staple in many authentic African stews and soups. Rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals, Whole Iru is more than just a flavouring — it’s a nutritious and cultural cornerstone of West African cooking.

Features

• 100% natural fermented locust beans (no additives or preservatives)

• High in plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients

• Adds a distinctive, umami-rich flavour to traditional African dishes

• Vegan-friendly, Halal, and suitable for vegetarians

• Used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and boost immunity

• Easy to incorporate into everyday stews, sauces, and soups

Product Details

• Net Weight: 70g

• English Name: Fermented Locust Beans

• Botanical Name: Parkia biglobosa

• Local Names:

  • Nigeria (Yoruba): Iru

  • Nigeria (Hausa): Dawadawa

  • Nigeria (Igbo): Ogiri Igala (variant)

  • Ghana: Dawadawa

  • Cameroon: Sumbala

  • Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso: Soumbala

  • Sierra Leone: Kenda

  • Sudan & Chad: Kawal (variant)

Countries of Consumption and Regional Use

Fermented locust beans are widely consumed across West and Central Africa, particularly in:

• Nigeria – a key ingredient in Egusi soup, Efo Riro, Ogbono, and Ofada sauce.

• Ghana – used in stews and rice dishes for depth of flavour.

• Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Niger – known as Soumbala, it’s added to bean dishes and sauces.

• Cameroon – incorporated into vegetable and fish stews.

• Sudan and Chad – a variant form is used in dried paste form for flavouring dishes.

It is also appreciated among the Caribbean and African diaspora in the UK, US, and Europe for its authentic taste and health benefits.

Culinary Uses and Pairings

Whole Iru is commonly used to elevate the flavour of dishes such as:

Popular Dishes:

1. Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

   • A spicy stew with spinach, palm oil, locust beans, crayfish, and assorted meats.

2. Egusi Soup

   • Melon seed soup cooked with Iru, stockfish, vegetables, and meat.

3. Ofada Sauce (Ayamase/Designer Stew)

   • Blended green pepper stew made aromatic with generous amounts of Iru.

4. Ogbono Soup

   • Thickened with ground Ogbono seeds and flavoured with locust beans.

Basic Ofada Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1kg assorted meat

• 2 green bell peppers

• 1 tbsp ground crayfish

• 2 tbsp whole Iru

• 2 cooking spoons palm oil

• 1 onion, seasoning, salt

Method:

1. Blend peppers coarsely and boil to reduce water content.

2. Bleach palm oil, add onions, and fry.

3. Add Iru and fry for 2–3 minutes to release aroma.

4. Stir in meat, crayfish, and blended peppers.

5. Simmer until thick and well-flavoured. Serve with Ofada rice or yam.

Pairs Well With:

• Egusi Melon Seeds

• Dried Catfish

• Palm Oil

• Ogbono

• Yam Flour, Cassava Fufu

Nutritional Information (Per 100g)

Ingredients

Fermented Locust Beans (100%)

Lifestyle and Allergy Information

• Dietary Suitability: Halal, suitable for vegetarians and vegans

• Allergens: No known allergens. However, processed in a facility that handles nuts, seeds, and gluten-based products.

• Preservatives/Additives: None

Storage Advice

Store in a cool, dry place. After opening, reseal the pack or transfer into an airtight container. For longer preservation, refrigerate or freeze.

Recycling Information

Pack is recyclable. Please check with local authority for recycling rules.

Country of Origin

Nigeria

4Way Foods Product Information

At 4Way Foods, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information about the products we stock. However, ingredients, nutritional guides, and allergy advice may change from time to time. As a result, we recommend always reading the label carefully before consuming any product. This is especially important for individuals with dietary restrictions or allergies. We cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies or discrepancies. This does not affect your statutory rights. Prices and promotions may vary between our physical and online stores.