Dodo Ikire is a traditional delicacy from Ikire in Osun State, Nigeria.[1] It was originally made from leftover plantain but today, people prepare it from fresh ingredients which are: over-ripe plantains, pepper, oil and salt. Dodo Ikire is black and round or conical in shape.
Plantain or cooking banana, which has been peeled, sliced and deep fried is called Dodo in some parts of Nigeria.
Picture attachment on a post about Dodo Ikire
Picture of Dodo Ikire served by a Food Blogger.
Legend has it that Dodo Ikire was created as an experiment by a poor, old lady from a town called Ikire. Ikire is a town in the South-western area of Nigeria between the cities of Ibadan and Ile-Ife, in Osun State.
This old lady had no food left except the over-ripe plantains, which she would have normally throw in the bin, but she decided to mash it all up with some salt and pepper and deep-fry it in palm oil. She ate it, enjoyed it and decided to make more and share with her neighbours.
The end result is what is now known as Dodo Ikire, named after the town it originated from. It is sold mostly in the South-western part of Nigeria.
Dodo ikire is a special snack popular in the western part of Nigeria. It’s a good idea to make when you have overripe plantains and a little time on your hands.
This recipe serves about 9 people (unless you want to binge eat this snack).
Ingredients
- 3 large plantains with black skins
- 3 teaspoons pepper
- Salt to taste
- Oil (1/3 palm oil and 2/3 vegetable oil) for frying
Directions
- Dice the plantains and mix in the pepper and salt and form into small balls.
- Heat the oil until hot but don’t let it start to smoke.
- Flatten the balls slightly and place them in the hot oil.
- Lower the heat slightly and fry the plantain balls until they are browned.
- Remove with a perforated or slotted spoon and drain in a sieve lined with paper towels.
