Food critic and Masterchef star Jimi Famurewa joins the hosts to discuss his book 'Settlers' which explores the food, faith, and culture of Black African London. They also talk about the role of smiling in communication, their preference for sparkling water, and their dream menu which includes a mackerel pita, Dexter cheeseburger, and KFC zinger tower burger. They delve into Nigerian cuisine, discussing Ewa Riro and Jollof rice, and share their love for non-alcoholic drinks like Orangeina.
A diverse and nostalgic menu incorporating global flavors and childhood favorites was discussed.
The guest emphasized the significance of certain dishes in Nigerian culture and their connection to nostalgia.
Finding comfort and joy in revisiting favorite places and dishes as an adult was highlighted by the guest.
Deep dives
Dream Starter: Trio of Small Sandwiches
The dream starter consists of three small sandwiches. One is the mackerel pita from Mangal 2, a Turkish-inspired restaurant in Dalston, known for its delicious charred mackerel and dill mayo. The second is a Dexter cheeseburger from The Plimsoll, a restaurant in Finsbury Park, renowned for its incredible burgers. And the final sandwich is a mini KFC zinger tower burger, which holds nostalgic value and is an indulgent treat.
Dream Main Course: Stewed Beans (Ewa Riro)
The dream main course is a Nigerian dish called Ewa Riro, which is stewed beans cooked with tomato, pepper, onions, and spices. This traditional dish is often enjoyed with fried plantain and provides a comforting and flavorful experience.
Dream Side Dish: Beef Suya
The dream side dish is Beef Suya, a fiery barbecued beef dish originating from Nigeria. It is seasoned with the traditional Suya spice, which includes peanuts, dried pepper, and ginger. The combination of sweet roasted peanuts and intense heat creates an addictive and flavorful dish.
Dream Dessert: Mango Lassi
The dream dessert is a Mango Lassi, a refreshing and creamy Indian beverage made with mango, yogurt, and spices. It provides a sweet and cooling end to the meal.
A Dream Menu Featuring Global Flavors and Childhood Nostalgia
This podcast episode features a discussion about a dream menu created by the guest. The menu incorporates global flavors and childhood nostalgia. The guest mentions starting with poppadoms and breads, followed by a trio of small sandwiches featuring mackerel, Dexter chewsburger, and a KFC-inspired tower burger. The main course is Iwo Iwo, a caramelized fish dish, served with good carrots and beef suya as a side. For drinks, the guest chooses an ice-cold orangeina and peanut milk from Bao. The dessert is an indulgent ice cream sundae consisting of toasted rice gelato, a Wendy's Frosty, hot fudge sauce, and crumbled brown butter custard tart and happy endings ice cream sandwich.
Appreciation for Family, Tradition, and Childhood Favorites
Throughout the episode, the guest expresses a strong sense of appreciation for family, tradition, and childhood favorites. They mention the significance of certain dishes in Nigerian culture, such as beef suya and peanuts, and their connection to nostalgia. The guest shares memories of enjoying sodas like orangeina and Nigerian Fanta during their childhood, as well as their fascination with American fast food, particularly Wendy's Frosty. They also emphasize the importance of finding comfort and joy in revisiting favorite places and dishes as an adult.
Author, food critic and Masterchef star Jimi Famurewa is judging the Dream Restaurant this week. Fingers crossed for a good review.
Jimi Famurewa’s book ‘Settlers: Journeys Through the Food, Faith and Culture of Black African London’ is out now in paperback, published by Bloomsbury Continuum. Buy it here.