International Herb
Widely used in Nigerian cookingSage
Herbal • Savoury
A strongly savoury aromatic herb used sparingly in selected meat, stuffing and sauce preparations.
Explore SageA structured Nigerian flavour reference
The Nigerian Spice Index A–Z
Explore 76 ingredients and seasonings
The Nigerian Spice Index documents the spices, herbs, peppers, leaves, fermented seasonings, flavouring ingredients and blends used across Nigerian cooking.
7 ingredient records
Alphabetical by default
Aromatic Herb
Scent Leaf
Aromatic • Herbal · Mild heat
A highly aromatic leaf used fresh in soups, sauces and pepper dishes.
Also known as: Nchuanwu
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Fresh Pepper
Shombo
Long red pepper; cayenne-type pepper
Peppery · Medium to hot heat
Shombo is a long Nigerian red pepper, often compared with cayenne-type pepper, used for red-chilli flavour and variable heat in pepper bases.
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Other Culinary Flavouring
Widely used in Nigerian cookingSpring Onion
Fresh • Savoury
A fresh allium used for mild onion flavour, colour and finishing freshness.
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International Spice
Widely used in Nigerian cookingStar Anise
Aromatic • Sweet
A strongly anise-scented dried fruit spice used sparingly in drinks, broths and blends.
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Seasoning Blend
Seasoning blendSuya Spice
Nutty • Peppery • Savoury · Hot heat
A savoury, peppery seasoning blend associated with Nigerian suya.
Also known as: Yaji
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International Herb
Widely used in Nigerian cookingSweet Basil
Aromatic • Herbal
A soft aromatic herb used fresh or dried in sauces, stews and contemporary dishes.
Explore Sweet BasilNew to Nigerian ingredients? The editorial guide explains peppers, leaves, fermented seasonings and traditional blends.
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