In the heart of every Nigerian kitchen, tradition meets taste. While modern appliances have found their place in urban homes, there’s something deeply nostalgic and efficient about traditional Nigerian cooking tools. These tools are not just functional—they tell stories, carry history, and deliver flavors you simply can’t replicate with modern gadgets.
Whether you’re a new cook, a curious foodie, or someone rediscovering your roots, here are the essential traditional Nigerian cooking tools every kitchen should have.
1. *Grinding Stone (Stone Mill) – “Odo” or “Metate”
Before blenders, there was the trusted grinding stone. Used to crush peppers, crayfish, and tomatoes into smooth pastes, the grinding stone brings out deep flavors that many believe are unmatched.
Tip: You can still buy traditional grinding stones in Nigerian markets or artisan stores. If you’re abroad, check out African grocery outlets like Obiji or MyChopChop.
2. Mortar and Pestle (“Okwa na Iji” or “Idi”)
From pounding yam to blending spices and herbs, the mortar and pestle is a Nigerian kitchen hero. Nothing beats the texture of pounded yam made the traditional way.
✅ Use it for:
- Pounding yam, plantain, or cocoyam
- Crushing garlic, ginger, or pepper
- Blending native soup ingredients
3. Clay Pots (“Ikoko”)
Clay pots are known for infusing meals with a rich, earthy aroma. They’re perfect for cooking soups like Oha, Nsala, and Ogbono. Clay also retains heat, keeping your food warm for longer.
Explore more: Check out our post on Traditional Igbo Soups and How to Prepare Them.
4. Charcoal Stove (Abacha Stove or “Aduro”)
For many rural homes and street food vendors, the charcoal stove remains a reliable source of heat. It’s perfect for grilling suya, boiling corn, or cooking large portions of jollof rice.
🔥 Why it’s loved: It delivers a smoky flavor that gas cookers can’t.
5. Palm Kernel Nut Cracker
Used to break open palm kernel nuts for their oil-rich seeds, this tool is a must-have if you want to make authentic banga soup or traditional palm oil from scratch.
6. Local Sieve (“Atupa” or “Asa”)
Made from raffia or wire mesh, these sieves are used for separating blended ingredients like pap (akamu) or tigernut milk from chaff. It’s a staple in preparing traditional breakfast dishes.
7. Wooden Cooking Spoons & Paddles
Wooden spoons are gentle on traditional cookware like clay pots and iron pans. They’re used for stirring soups, making pounded yam, or scooping fufu.
🌿 Eco tip: Wooden spoons are biodegradable and last longer than plastic.
8. Ewedu Broom (Ijabe)
A unique broom made from long sticks, it’s specifically for whisking ewedu soup. It breaks down the leaves into a slimy, delicious texture that blenders simply can’t replicate.
9. Aluminium Pots and Iron Cauldrons (“Canopy Pot”)
Commonly used for party meals and large cooking batches like wedding jollof or festival stew. These pots hold heat well and are often used on open fires.
See also: Top Nigerian Party Foods and How to Make Them at Home
Why Traditional Tools Still Matter
While kitchen technology has advanced, traditional tools offer unmatched authenticity. They help preserve Nigerian cooking heritage, enhance flavor, and bring a unique rhythm to food preparation.
Whether you’re cooking on a modern stove or an open flame, adding these tools to your kitchen helps you connect deeply with the culinary spirit of Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re setting up a Nigerian-style kitchen or just want to try something new, invest in these traditional tools. Your taste buds will thank you—and so will your ancestors!
