With the price of fresh tomatoes skyrocketing due to an infestation known as Tomato Ebola, many Nigerian households are seeking alternative ingredients for their beloved jollof rice and stew. This has led to a significant reduction in tomato consumption as families explore other options to maintain their culinary traditions.
Red bell peppers, or Tatashe, are becoming a popular substitute, providing similar color and texture to dishes. These peppers can be blended with onions, garlic, ginger, and carrots to achieve a comparable effect to fresh tomatoes. Additionally, blending red bell peppers with dried pepper and onions, then adding tomato paste, offers a viable solution for stew preparation.
Other vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, palm fruit extract, and eggplants are also being adopted. Cucumbers, when blended and mixed with onions and fresh pepper, can replace tomatoes in stews. Carrots, known for their sweetness and vibrant color, can mimic the appearance of tomatoes in jollof rice and stews. Palm fruit extract is used particularly in the eastern and southern regions for stews and soups. Eggplants, though not as red, offer a thick consistency and sweet taste suitable for various dishes. These alternatives not only help manage costs but also introduce diverse flavors and nutrients into Nigerian diets.