Lagos Loves Mushrooms (No, Not That Kind!): Food Trends We’re Totally Here For.

Lagos loves mushrooms: If there’s one thing Nigerians know, it’s how to hop on a food trend and make it distinctly our own. Whether it’s jollof wars or the latest twist on suya, we take the global food wave and spin it with local flair –Naija style. 

And the latest thing making its way into our plates is …Mushrooms! Yes, those little fungi that you grew around your childhood compound (if you’re like me) are about to become the star ingredient of your favourite dishes.

Don’t worry—this isn’t “that kind of mushroom”. We’re talking gourmet, nutrient-packed mushrooms that are turning heads from Ikoyi to Ikeja.

Mushroom The Lagos Way

Mushrooms are not news globally, but Lagos is taking this trend and running with it—straight to the local markets. Suddenly, mushrooms are popping up not just in fancy restaurants, but also in street food spots. And we’re not mad about it.

Mushrooms in Ofada Rice? Yes, Please!

If you’re a fan of ofada rice, you’re in for a pleasant surprise (or you’re about to break someone’s head with a spoon).

But, before you make up your mind, imagine that earthy, aromatic ofada sauce… but with mushrooms. It still adds that meaty texture, but it somehow makes the sauce fresher in its own way. 

For those of us trying to cut back on red meat or find plant-based protein options, mushrooms are a winner. They’re rich in antioxidants, low in calories, and provide an excellent source of fibre. Plus, they are cheaper than meat, which is a big deal considering how much I bought meat last week.

Pepper Soup with a twist

This one was a hard pill to swallow, even for me who loves food adventures. I mean, pepper soup is sacred and normally, thou shall not touch. But apparently, mushrooms can handle the heat too.

Adding mushrooms to pepper soup is not for everyone, but for those who dare, you may just find that you prefer it. Whether it’s fish pepper soup or goat meat, mushrooms absorb the soup almost better than fish and meat do. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying it replaces the meat of fish… Can’t be me. But, if you want a spin on your pepper soup and you are bold enough to try, join the shroom gang. 

Mushroom Suya

Can you take a bite out of raw onions? Most likely not… but what if it was dipped in marinated in Suya sauced, smoked the proper way, and baptized with Suya pepper…. Still a no? We’ll replace the onion with a mushroom and you’ve got mushroom Suya. Now put that on a stick and alternate with actual Suya and join the club. 

Whether you’re having a lazy brunch with mushroom-stuffed puff-puff (trust us, it’s a thing!) or ordering a mushroom-topped pizza from your favorite spot in VI, there’s no denying that mushrooms are here to stay.

So next time you’re at the market or your favorite restaurant, don’t skip the fungi section. Add a little mushroom magic to your meals and discover why Lagos loves mushrooms (no, not that kind!).

Remember to subscribe to our newsletter here and subscribe to the YouTube channel and banter with me on Twitter and TikTok, Threads, and Instagram