Uda

Uda, also known as Negro pepper or Xylopia aethiopica, is a fragrant spice commonly used in Nigerian and West African cooking. It has a smoky, slightly bitter flavor with hints of pepper and earthiness, making it a key ingredient in dishes like pepper soup, nkwobi, and yam porridge. The spice comes from the dried pods of the Uda tree, which grows in tropical regions. To use it, the pods are often lightly roasted or crushed to release their bold aroma and flavor. Beyond cooking, Uda is valued in traditional medicine for its digestive and healing properties — it's believed to help with stomach pain, postpartum recovery, and cold relief. Whether for flavor or wellness, Uda brings a unique, smoky warmth to African dishes.