Sale!

500g Dried pap

Original price was: ₦4,000.00.Current price is: ₦3,500.00.

Category:

Description

Dried pap is a traditional West African food product made from fermented and dried maize (corn), sorghum, or millet. It is a convenient, non-perishable form of the popular local porridge known as pap, akamu, ogi, or koko, depending on the region and language. This versatile food is used primarily as a breakfast meal or weaning food for infants but is also enjoyed by people of all ages.

Source Ingredients

  • Maize (Zea mays)
  • Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
  • Millet (Pennisetum glaucum or Eleusine coracana)

Processing Steps

  1. Selection and Cleaning:
    • High-quality grains (maize, sorghum, or millet) are selected.
    • The grains are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, stones, and other impurities.
  2. Soaking and Fermentation:
    • The cleaned grains are soaked in water for 2-3 days to initiate fermentation.
    • Fermentation softens the grains and develops the characteristic tangy flavor.
  3. Wet Milling:
    • The fermented grains are wet milled to form a smooth slurry.
    • The slurry is sieved to remove the chaff, leaving behind the smooth, starchy part.
  4. Fermenting the Slurry:
    • The slurry is left to ferment further for an additional 1-2 days to deepen the flavor.
  5. Drying:
    • The fermented slurry is spread thinly on drying trays and dried in the sun or using a dehydrator until all moisture is removed.
    • The dried product is then broken into flakes or ground into a fine powder.
  6. Packaging:
    • The dried pap is packed in airtight containers or bags to maintain its quality and shelf life.

Physical Characteristics of Dried Pap

  • Color: Light cream to pale yellow, depending on the type of grain used.
  • Texture: Fine powder or small flakes.
  • Aroma: Mild, slightly sour aroma due to fermentation.
  • Flavor: Tangy, slightly sour taste with a hint of sweetness.

Nutritional Profile (per 100 grams)

  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: Around 75-80 grams
  • Protein: About 5-7 grams
  • Fat: Roughly 1-2 grams
  • Fiber: Approximately 2-4 grams
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin), vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and calcium.

Health Benefits

  • Digestive Health: Fermentation increases the digestibility of grains and adds beneficial probiotics, aiding in gut health.
  • Energy Source: High in carbohydrates, providing a quick and sustained source of energy.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Contains essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
  • Infant Nutrition: Commonly used as a weaning food for infants due to its smooth texture and nutritional content.
  • Low Fat: Naturally low in fat, making it a healthy addition to various diets.

Culinary Uses

  • Breakfast Porridge: Reconstituted with water or milk to make a smooth, creamy porridge.
  • Weaning Food: Used as a first solid food for infants.
  • Snacks and Desserts: Can be sweetened and flavored for use in snacks and desserts.
  • Baking: Sometimes used as an ingredient in baking recipes for added nutrition and flavor.

Traditional Preparation of Pap

  1. Rehydrating the Dried Pap:
    • Mix the dried pap powder or flakes with water to form a smooth paste.
    • Gradually add boiling water while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
    • Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
  2. Serving:
    • Serve hot with sugar or honey and milk for added flavor.
    • It can also be accompanied by akara (bean fritters), bread, or other side dishes.

Storage

  • Conditions: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Shelf Life: Can last for several months to a year if stored properly, with minimal exposure to moisture and air.

Cultural and Historical Significance

  • Culinary Tradition: Dried pap is a staple food in many West African countries, with a long history of traditional preparation and consumption.
  • Festivals and Ceremonies: Often prepared during special occasions, festivals, and traditional ceremonies.
  • Economic Importance: The production and sale of dried pap provide a source of income for many small-scale farmers and processors.

Safety and Precautions

  • Allergies: Generally safe for most people, but those with specific grain allergies (e.g., maize) should exercise caution.
  • Quality Control: Ensure that dried pap is sourced from reputable suppliers to avoid contamination with dust, mold, or other foreign materials.

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “500g Dried pap”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *