This hospitality poem on Ibibio delicacies is to showcase the rich delicacies of the Ibibio people of the South-South region of Nigeria.
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Nigeria's South-South region, the Ibibio people have cultivated a rich tapestry of culinary traditions that reflect both their vibrant culture and deep-rooted sense of hospitality. At the heart of this culinary heritage lies a profound appreciation for the art of hospitality, where meals serve as more than just sustenance but as a means of forging bonds and fostering community. Within this cultural context, a poignant poem on hospitality and Ibibio cuisine emerges, aiming to celebrate and illuminate the diverse flavors and traditions that define this dynamic community.
The Ibibio people are renowned for their warm and welcoming nature, and their culinary traditions serve as a testament to this spirit of hospitality. Rooted in a deep reverence for nature and the bounty it provides, Ibibio cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and vibrant flavors. From aromatic soups and stews to flavorful rice dishes and spicy condiments, each meal is a celebration of the region's rich agricultural heritage and culinary ingenuity. Moreover, the act of sharing a meal holds a special significance in Ibibio culture, symbolizing camaraderie, friendship, and the bonds of kinship.
Against this backdrop of culinary richness and hospitality, the poem on Ibibio cuisine serves as a lyrical ode to the flavors, aromas, and traditions that define the region's gastronomic landscape. Through its evocative verses, the poem transports readers on a sensory journey, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Ibibio cuisine. From the earthy sweetness of palm oil to the fiery kick of locally grown peppers, each ingredient is imbued with meaning and significance, weaving together a narrative of tradition, culture, and community.
Beyond its culinary delights, the poem also sheds light on the cultural significance of food within the Ibibio community. It explores the rituals and customs surrounding mealtime, from the communal preparation of dishes to the sharing of stories and laughter around the dining table. Through its exploration of Ibibio hospitality, the poem invites readers to embrace the spirit of togetherness and camaraderie that lies at the heart of this dynamic culinary tradition. Ultimately, it serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Ibibio people and their unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing their rich cultural heritage through the universal language of food. This poem on hospitality and Ibibio cuisine aim to highlight the diverse culinary traditions of the Ibibio people of Nigeria's South-South area. Historical, Tourism and Heritage Poems about Akwa Ibom State
Ibibio Delicacies
Blessed people of a blessed tribe
Him whose strength is a symbol of her delicacies
Celebrated in their diverse sumptuous meals
That other tribe seems to envy with pride.
Great descendants from Usayedet
I tapped into the strength of your love
My mouth couldn’t resist a taste of your strengths
No wonder they say you have the key to a man’s heart.
For the sake of posterity, I shall unveil your secrets
That others who seek wisdom would benefit
For the efficacies spiced in your delicious delicacies
These are lessons whose aroma prolongs life.
If you must learn their guided secrets
Then tap your feet to her traditional coronations
Let your eyes witness their Usoro Udo
For there, the gathering of Ibibio delicacies is on display
As an old maiden unveiled their efficacies to the body.
Afang Soup – Weekend’s special
Prepared from shredded afang and water leaves
Spiced with fresh pepper and assorted ingredient
That a plate served is a call for another.
Edikang Ikong – Everyday blood tonic
Cooked in the combination with pumpkin and water leaves
For those who seek revitalization, a sure recommendation
Now a global recipe served in major restaurants around the world.
Abak Soup – Aroma of our old-maidens
Made from cooked oil palm fruits
With the addition of Atama leaves
Her traditional strength is arose
She is a major test a maiden must pass
If truly she must be certified fit for marriage.
Efere Etike – Sample of a spider net
Spiced from Okro Fruits and pumpkin leaves
A quick drop feeds a hungry stomach
But be careful or else you stain your cloth.
Efere Ikon – Yellow mixture
That extract from the melon seeds
An addition of bitter leaves
Gives a bitter-sweet taste
That puts vinegar to shame.
Afia Efere – Holder of traditional ceremonies
That chilly combination of spices served with pounded yam
Now makes her the toast of traditional ceremonies
Surely, an august visitor would always remember you.
Iwuk Ukom – Nine months evidence
Cooked from unripe plantain and pumpkin leaves
Served with a splash of palm oil
Sure energy booster, the men folk knows thy reward
For you set the tone of laughter that puts Viagra to shame
Now our maidens could coin sweet names…
Ekpan Nkukwo – Replenisher of our nursing mothers
From the tubers of coco-yam and coco-yam leaves you are made
An addition of periwinkles swells your aroma
For you revitalized the body of our nursing mothers
And restore their shapes for all eyes to see.
Iwuot Ebot – Pride of fun seekers
You’re our local salad made from goat head
Your chilly smell is an appetizer that runs our nose
Surely the ladies know thy worth
For no fun is complete without a taste of you…
How could I forget you – Iwuk Edesi
The joy of our hinterland children
Our own local jollof rice you are
In combination with crayfish
And palm oil, you are cooked
That is what they missed in fried rice
Are the health strengths they harbour in you.
How my journey is about to end
But I can’t go without giving out our appetizers
That would hold down the heart
As our revitalizing delicacies smoke from the cooking pot.
Edita Iwa our appetizer made from cassava tubers would do
Do not forget Ukana seed, a gift from Ukana tree
Who would forget Ibong, our own African Kola
For he who brings him, they say brings life.
The little our hands could touch we have learned
Let him that must know, knows
For no one tree makes a forest our wise elders would say
The Ibibio are blessed, for their delicacies are their pride
If you must have the key to a man’s heart
Go, learn this secret “Good cooking”.
Nsikak Andrew, 25th June 2007
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