Fresh Locust Beans (Iru)

Fresh Locust Beans, known as "iru," are the fermented seasoning that gives classic Nigerian soups their unmistakable depth.

What it is: Iru is made from the seeds of the African locust bean tree, fermented until soft and deeply aromatic. It's a foundational umami seasoning used across Yoruba and wider West African cooking.

Why customers love it: Cooks love it because a small amount instantly deepens the flavour of a pot, adding a savoury, slightly pungent richness that no bouillon cube or stock powder can fully replace.

How to use it: Add a spoonful to ayamase, efo riro, ogbono soup, egusi soup or ofada stew while cooking. The strong smell mellows significantly once cooked into a dish.

A taste of home: Locust beans have been used across Nigeria and West Africa for generations as a natural fermented flavour booster, long before bouillon cubes existed, and remain essential in many traditional soup recipes today.

Storage: Refrigerate after opening to preserve freshness and slow further fermentation. Can also be frozen in small portions for longer storage.