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Wheat Fufu

Also known as Wheat Fufu (Swallow)

Wheat Fufu is a modern Nigerian swallow made from whole wheat flour that has become increasingly popular in urban Nigerian households as a health-conscious alternative to cassava-based or white flour swallows. It has a slightly denser, chewier texture than Semo and a mild, neutral wheat flavour with very slight earthiness from the whole wheat.

Wheat Fufu, Nigerian cooking

Ingredients

  • 3 big cups of whole wheat flour or Nigerian wheat swallow flour (such as Wheatmeal brand)
  • 4 to 5 glasses of water
  • Extra boiling water for consistency adjustment

Method

  1. 01

    Boiling the Water. Bring 4 glasses of water to a full rolling boil.

  2. 02

    Adding the Wheat Flour. Reduce heat to medium. Add the wheat flour gradually in a thin stream while stirring vigorously and continuously. The mixture will thicken quickly — stir fast to prevent lumps.

  3. 03

    Turning and Developing. Once all the flour is added, stir vigorously, pressing the swallow against the pot sides. Wheat Fufu takes slightly more effort to develop smoothly than Semo — work the spatula firmly for 8 to 10 minutes.

  4. 04

    Steaming. Cover tightly and steam on the lowest heat for 5 minutes.

  5. 05

    Final Check. The finished Wheat Fufu should be smooth, firm, slightly darker in colour than Semo (due to the whole wheat), and fully cohesive. Add a splash of boiling water if too stiff. Mould with wet hands and serve.

More side dishes & swallows