Nigerian food explorer and culinary anthropologist , Ozoz Sokoh has unveiled her debut cookbook, Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria.
Published on March 18, 2025, the book explores Nigeria’s rich culinary traditions through a collection of 100 recipes that showcase the diversity and depth of the country’s cuisine.
Sokoh, also known as ‘Kitchen Butterfly’, has spent over a decade documenting and preserving Nigerian food heritage. Her blog, which began as a way to record family recipes for her children, has evolved into a platform highlighting the roots and global influence of Nigerian and West African cuisine.
The cookbook features recipes ranging from classics like jollof rice and pepper soup to lesser-known dishes like yòyò (fried whitebait) and mọ́ínmọ́ín elewe (steamed bean pudding). It also introduces readers to Nigerian ingredients, spices, and cooking techniques, making it accessible to home cooks everywhere.
In addition to recipes, Chop Chop offers cultural and historical insights that trace Nigerian food’s impact around the world, from the American South to the Caribbean and beyond. Stunning photographs of dishes, markets, and landscapes add a visual dimension to the celebration of Nigeria’s culinary spirit.
Culinary experts have praised the book as a definitive guide to Nigerian cuisine. Jessica B. Harris, PhD, culinary historian, professor, lecturer, and author of High on the Hog in her words says:
“From classics like pepper soup, jollof rice, and sūya̱ to less well-known dishes such as yòyò (fried whitebait) and spices like aridan, Chop Chop gives a rich and loving culinary picture of the food of Africa’s most peopled country. Recipes have easy-to-follow directions, and the book is filled with glorious photographs of individual dishes, local markets, and more.”
Naomi Duguid, author of The Miracle of Salt and Taste of Persia, says:
“Ozoz writes like a dream as she invites us to engage with the rich, delicious food cultures of Nigeria. The lovely photos are an enticing backdrop to her recipes and stories.”
Yemisi Aribisala, author of Longthroat Memoirs, says:
“Chop Chop showcases elegantly Ozoz’s love for her nation’s cuisine and skillfully guides both newcomer and connoisseur into the riches of Nigerian food.”
Ozoz Sokoh’s passion for connectedness through food shines throughout Chop Chop. Whether you’re a newcomer or a connoisseur, this cookbook invites readers to savor the flavors of Nigeria and engage with its vibrant food culture.
For more details, visit Ozoz Sokoh’s book website.
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
