Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It kickstarts your metabolism and provides the energy and nutrients needed to power through the day. In Nigeria, breakfast is taken seriously, with a wide range of delicious and nutritious options available.
While any food can ordinarily be eaten as breakfast, it is very important that your first food of the day is light, satisfying, and also very nutritious.
In this article, we will be looking at 12 healthy breakfast foods in Nigeria.
1. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a popular breakfast choice in Nigeria. It is rich in fiber, protein, essential vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and so on. Because it is rich in fibre, oatmeal is very satisfying and keeps you fuller for longer. The fibre also eases bowel movement and benefits gut health.
Oatmeal is also known to reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood sugar levels, and also reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Moi Moi
Moi Moi is a steamed bean pudding made from black-eyed beans, as we normally call it here, onions, and spices. It is a great source of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Moi Moi is low in fat and calories and is perfect for those looking for a healthy breakfast option.
3. Akara
Akara is a deep-fried bean cake, also made from black-eyed peas. It is a great source of protein and is also rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Akara is a filling breakfast option that will keep you satisfied for hours.
Akara can be enjoyed alone or eaten with bread, pap (ogi), or custard. It is best enjoyed hot.
4. Plantains
Plantains are a popular breakfast food in Nigeria. The plantains are sliced into thin bits and fried until they are golden brown. Plantains are high in fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Plantains can be boiled, fried, or grilled and can be served with beans, eggs, or vegetables.
5. Pap
Pap, also known as ogi or akamu, is a traditional Nigerian breakfast made from fermented cornmeal. It is rich in vitamins B and C, iron, and fiber. Pap is a filling breakfast option that will keep you energized for hours.
It can be enjoyed alone, after adding sugar and milk to improve the taste, or with akara/moi moi or any other food.
6. Yam
Yam is a starchy root vegetable that is a popular breakfast choice in Nigeria. It is high in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Yam is also high in calories and is a very satisfying food.
Yam can be boiled, roasted, or fried and can be served with eggs, vegetables, or stew. It can be used in the preparation of yam porridge.
7. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be boiled, fried, or scrambled and can be served with bread, plantain, or yam. Eggs are very satisfying. It is also rich in HDL, which is the good type of cholesterol. High HDL levels have been seen to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues.
8. Bread
Bread is a staple breakfast food in Nigeria. It is commonly eaten because it requires no preparation. This means it can be eaten alone, but it is commonly paired with tea, eggs, akara, butter, and so on. The ability to pair it with anything is what makes bread a great breakfast choice.
It is a great source of carbohydrates, fat, potassium, and other vitamins and minerals. Whole wheat bread is a healthier option as it is higher in fiber and nutrients.
9. Noodles
Instant noodles are a popular breakfast choice in Nigeria. While they are not the healthiest option, they can be made healthier by adding vegetables and protein. Whole grain noodles are also a healthier option as they are higher in fiber and nutrients.
10. Rice
Another very great breakfast option is rice. Eating hot rice in the morning would provide you with the needed strength to get about your day without you having to eat much.
Rice is a rich source of carbohydrates, and each serving contains a fair amount of calories. Rather than eat white rice, go for brown rice instead. Brown rice, which is a whole grain, is more nutritious as it contains more nutrients and less calories. It is also good for people with conditions like diabetes and so on.
11. Okpa
If you’ve been to any state in the eastern parts of Nigeria, you’ve probably heard of okpa.
Okpa, also known as Bambara nut pudding, is a popular Nigerian snack that is typically made from Bambara nuts, a type of legume that is commonly grown in Africa.
It is a nutritious snack that is high in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast and has a unique flavor and texture that is similar to Moi Moi.
In addition to its great taste, Okpa is also a healthy snack that is perfect for those looking for a nutritious alternative to processed snacks. It is low in fat, high in protein and fiber, and is a great source of vitamins and minerals.
12. Custard
Custard is a popular pasty cream made from custard powder. It is an affordable and widely-eaten breakfast food in Nigeria.
Custard is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy to the body. It is also fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, B, C, calcium and iron, which are important for maintaining good health.
