Quick answer
Nnam owondo: Groundnut cake steamed in leaves, a South region specialty. Cameroon’s South region (capital Ebolowa) is home to this dish. Allow about 150 minutes for 6 people; difficulty: medium. It is served with cassava, plantain or cassava sticks.
Key facts
- Region
- South · Ebolowa
- Time
- 150 min
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Servings
- 6
- Served with
- cassava, plantain or cassava sticks
- When
- celebrations and family meals
Where does Nnam owondo come from?
Nnam owondo is a cake of ground groundnuts steamed slowly in leaves, a specialty of the South. Dense and filling, it is shared in slices with cassava or plantain.
Other signature dishes of the South region: Ogbono soup, Kribi-style grilled fish.
What are the ingredients for Nnam owondo?
For 6 people:
- Shelled groundnuts
- Wrapping leaves
- Dried chili
- Smoked fish (optional) (buy locally)
How do you make Nnam owondo? Step-by-step recipe
- Blend the shelled groundnuts into a fine paste.
- Loosen with a little water, add chili and salt.
- Wrap in leaves and tie.
- Steam for 2 h.
- Serve warm with cassava or plantain.
Tips for a perfect Nnam owondo
- Grind the groundnuts very finely for a smooth texture.
- Allow at least two hours of steaming.
- Smoked fish is optional but traditional.
What to serve with Nnam owondo
Traditionally it is served with cassava, plantain or cassava sticks. It is a dish for celebrations and family meals.
Where to buy Nnam owondo ingredients in Europe and North America
Outside Cameroon, the dry and frozen ingredients for Nnam owondo are often hard to find. Our kit gathers them, checked and packed in Douala, and delivers them across Europe, the UK, the US and Canada, including Paris, Brussels, London, Montreal.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nnam owondo?
Groundnut cake steamed in leaves, a South region specialty. It comes from Cameroon’s South region.
How long does Nnam owondo take to make?
About 150 minutes for 6 people.
What do you eat Nnam owondo with?
With cassava, plantain or cassava sticks.
Can you cook Nnam owondo outside Cameroon?
Yes. Our kit brings together the hard-to-find ingredients; only everyday fresh items need to be bought locally.
