Easter in Nigeria is more than just a religious event—it’s a festive occasion that brings families together. After the spiritual reflection of Good Friday and the joy of Easter Sunday, one of the most exciting ways Nigerians celebrate is through food.
From traditional delicacies to modern dishes, Easter meals are a major highlight of the season. Whether you’re preparing a family feast or organizing a community get-together, these 12 foods are highly recommended to make your Easter celebration special in Nigeria.
1. Jollof Rice
No major Nigerian celebration is complete without Jollof rice. This iconic West African dish is beloved across the country. Made with tomatoes, pepper, onions, and various spices, Jollof rice is usually served with fried plantains, salad, and grilled meat or chicken. It’s festive, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite during Easter.
2. Fried Rice
Fried rice is often served alongside Jollof during festive seasons. It’s made by stir-frying cooked rice with vegetables like carrots, green peas, and sweet corn, sometimes with liver or shrimp. During Easter, fried rice adds color and variety to the dining table and is a great choice for guests who want something lighter and different.
3. Ofada Rice and Ayamase (Ofada Sauce)
Ofada rice is an indigenous Nigerian rice variety known for its earthy aroma. When served with Ayamase, also known as “designer stew” made with green bell peppers, locust beans, assorted meats, and palm oil, it becomes a rich and flavorful Easter treat. It’s especially popular among Yoruba households during festive periods.
4. Moi Moi
Moi Moi, a steamed bean pudding, is another staple at Nigerian Easter celebrations. Made from blended peeled beans, pepper, onions, and spices, it can be enriched with eggs, fish, or meat. Moi Moi pairs perfectly with rice dishes and is a great vegetarian option for guests.
5. Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup
For many Nigerians, no celebration is complete without a “swallow” dish. Pounded yam, made by pounding boiled yam into a stretchy dough, is often served with rich Egusi soup. Egusi, made from ground melon seeds, vegetables, and assorted meats, is a top choice for Easter lunch, especially in the Eastern and Southwestern parts of Nigeria.
6. Amala and Ewedu with Gbegiri
Amala is made from yam or cassava flour and is very popular in Western Nigeria. During Easter, it is served with ewedu (jute leaves), gbegiri (bean soup), and spicy stew. The combination is not just delicious but also satisfying, offering deep cultural and festive vibes.
7. Suya or Grilled Chicken
Suya, Nigeria’s famous spicy grilled meat skewers, is a perfect Easter evening snack or barbecue option. Marinated with a mix of ground spices called yaji, suya is often served with onions, tomatoes, and pepper sauce. Grilled chicken, similarly seasoned, is a favorite in many homes and churches during Easter picnics or parties.
8. Salad (Nigerian Style)
Nigerian salad is more than just greens—it’s a hearty mix of lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, baked beans, boiled eggs, potatoes, and even pasta. Often dressed with mayonnaise and cream, it’s typically served with Jollof or fried rice. It’s colorful, tasty, and a staple during Easter celebrations.
9. Akara and Pap
For Easter Sunday breakfast, Akara (bean cakes) and pap (fermented corn pudding) is a beloved combo. Akara is made by deep-frying spiced bean batter, while pap is served hot, sometimes with milk and sugar. This combo is filling, nourishing, and great for family mornings during Easter weekend.
10. Nkwobi or Isi Ewu
These traditional Igbo delicacies are made from well-seasoned cow foot (Nkwobi) or goat head (Isi Ewu), cooked with palm oil, spices, and utazi leaves. These spicy dishes are often enjoyed with a chilled drink and shared among adults during evening hangouts or post-service Easter gatherings.
11. Pepper Soup
Goat meat, chicken, or fish pepper soup is a spicy broth that is both delicious and medicinal. It is commonly served during Easter, especially as a light meal after church services or before the main dish. The intense aroma and spices make it a comforting and celebratory dish for the holiday season.
12. Snacks and Pastries
Chin chin, puff puff, meat pie, and small chops are perfect for entertaining guests or for church picnics. These finger foods are easy to prepare or buy in bulk and keep the Easter mood alive through casual munching during hangouts and family conversations.
Beverage Ideas to Pair With Easter Meals
To complement these meals, Nigerians often serve chilled drinks such as Zobo, kunu, malt, fruit juices, or soda. For special celebrations, wine or palm wine is also included. Hydrating and refreshing drinks help complete the festive experience.
Easter is a time of celebration, gratitude, and sharing. In Nigeria, food plays a major role in bringing people together. From rich stews to spicy grills and sweet pastries, every dish adds its own flavor to the season.
With these 12 recommended foods, your Easter celebration is sure to be memorable and delicious. Whether you’re cooking at home or attending a group event, you’ll have something festive, traditional, and satisfying to offer. So go ahead, plan your Easter menu and enjoy the beauty of togetherness through good food.
