What You Need to Know
Carbonized banana peels (kilikili) undergo microbial conversion of residual carbohydrates into acetic and lactic acids via heterofermentative pathways, while potassium carbonate from the ash buffers pH.
Provides tangy depth to bitter leaf soup (ofe onugbu) and replaces scarce citrus in dry seasons.
Key Parameters
Temperature
30°C
25°C - 37°C
Time
60 hours
36 hours - 96 hours
Equipment
Earthenware fermentation potPlantain leaf coverWooden stirring paddle
Steps
- 1.
Ofe akwu (Igboland): Counters palm nut oil richness
- 2.
Ewedu soup (Yorubaland): Prevents jute leaf sliminess
The Science
Primary Reaction
heterolactic fermentation