FCT: Most people have turned to ‘awara’ as meat substitute – Seller

Mrs Hannatu Musa, an “awara” seller in Bwari Area Council of the FCT, has said that more people have turned to buying awara as a substitute source of protein obtained from fish and meat.

Musa, who spoke on Wednesday, said since meat was no longer affordable, some people had resorted to the use of awara as a substitute.

Awara is the Hausa version of “tofu” – a meal made from soybean curds. Soybean is a protein source and contains several vitamins and is low in carbohydrate.

Awara is a common delicacy in Northern Nigeria produced in block forms and eaten as a snack.

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Mrs Musa said the snack had significant popularity in the North due to its health benefits and taste.

She further said, “I learnt it is packed with protein and serves as an excellent alternative to meat for individuals looking to reduce their meat intake.

“I think that is why patronage for it has increased lately. I have seen more people of different tribes come here to buy the snack.

“One of my customers actually told me he buys it for his entire family so that they can add it to their meals.

“I think it is because it has a meat-like texture and flavor. You can actually add it as an ingredient in soups and stews.’

Madam Christine Douglas, an awara consumer, said she never ate it until she came to live in Abuja five years ago.

She said that her neighbour, a Northerner, introduced her to eating it and that since then she had gone on queues to buy.

She further said, “I have introduced other women to it. It is very delicious if well prepared.

“I like the way it is usually garnished. It goes well with rice, and now that meat is expensive, I use it to balance my diet.’’ (NAN)

Dr Kemi Adegoke-Abraham, a nutritionist, said awara had high vitamin content and low carbohydrate.

She said it was a good choice for those monitoring carbohydrate intake.

“In addition, the low glycemic index in soybean ensures stable blood sugar levels, rendering it a suitable option for individuals with diabetes.

“Soybean also proffers a substantial dietary fibre content, and according to some research, soybean reduces the risk of breast cancer.” (NAN)