Deborah Akwa

<h2>The green slimy fruit shaped in a conelike form called okra is of West African origin.</h2>

The Igbo tribe in Nigeria calls it "ọ́kụ̀rụ̀", while the Yoruba’s call it "Ila." Most people classify okra as a vegetable but botanically, it's a fruit because it has seeds. This fruit is one of the key ingredient in the most prepared traditional Nigerian dishes called okra soup. Most Nigerians have fallen in love with this dish because of its quick and easy recipe with most of its ingredients at arm’s length in the kitchen.

The renowned Nigerian okra soup is quite simple to prepare with ingredients like; okra, palm oil, beef, iced fish, dry fish, stock fish, crayfish, pepper and salt (to taste), onions (optional), vegetable - Nigerian pumpkin leaves or spinach and seasoning cubes.

Okra is known for its versatility and nutritional benefits which makes the dish prepared in almost every Nigerian home and restaurant. Originally, okra soup is paired with traditional starchy staples like eba, pounded yam and fufu but overtime, these starchy staples are ditched for rice. Could it be that rice is more accessible and affordable which made it gradually become an alternative accompaniment? Possibly true.

Rice is one dish almost every Nigerian can’t do without. In fact if this writer doesn't eat rice in one week, it feels like her existence as a human being isn’t complete.

Our method of intermingling local and international dishes has driven us to the weird or odd combination of okra soup and white rice.

Freshly prepared okra soup with beef, smoked fish and crunchy ugwu leaves contains vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for immune function, skin health, and bone health. While white rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

The downside of this dish is that it can sometimes lack other vital nutrients like protein and healthy fats, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. Also, if this dish is prepared with high-sodium ingredients like seasoning cubes, salt, etc, it can contribute to high sodium intake, which can cause hypertension and other cardiovascular issues.

My verdict is; To include this dish in your meal plan, okra soup should be prepared using healthier oils, balanced protein sources like fish, beef, chicken and less use of high-sodium seasonings. Brown rice should be used instead of white rice to increase fiber intake and provide more nutrients.

(Takes deep breath) However, this writer personally thinks okra soup and white rice isn’t an odd dish, which shouldn’t be left only for millennials but everyone should have a taste of it including the Gen-Z-ers. And yes, I have tried the dish and it's quite slimy. But is it tasty? Well, you be the judge of that.

I hope you’ve set before you a bowl okra soup and white rice as either lunch or dinner. As usual, keep your mouths open to receive and your taste buds adventurous!

The green slimy fruit shaped in a conelike form is of the West African origin.

Pulse Bizarre Bites: Okra soup & rice, a combo for Nigerian millennials or just odd?

<h2>The popular Nigerian breakfast, akara meaning “bean cake or beans fritters” is usually combined with either bread or fermented corn pudding called ogi or akamu - the trio are sometimes eaten together.</h2>

The staple food, which is easy to prepare with bean seeds, is soaked in water for a few hours. After some time, the washing process is expected to flake off the skin from the seeds.

Then, it's blended into a smooth paste, adding spices (salt, seasoning cubes, pepper, onions). After mixing the paste properly, it is scooped into small sizes onto a pan of hot oil, to deep-fry.

Scooped into small sizes onto a pan of hot oil, to deep-fry

I know you’re beginning to imagine the crispy golden brown ball but don’t get carried away yet, come back to reality! But to think closely, have you ever wondered how and where akara came about, is it really a Nigerian originated dish? Keep reading.

The funny and surprising thing is that I’ve always thought that Nigerians were the only owners of this “diamondous” meal (if there’s any word like that), not until I found out that Brazilians also own this dish!

The origin of akara can be traced back to the West African Kingdom of Dahomey, located in present-day Benin Republic and Nigeria. It’s believed to have been brought to Brazil by enslaved Africans. During the trans-Atlantic slave trade, between the 16th and 19th centuries, enslaved Africans shipped to the Americas weren’t allowed to bring their cultures with them. Despite this, enslaved Africans passed them down their culture to their descendants through music, food, and other forms of cultural expression. In Portugal/Brazil today, akara is called "acarajé" (Portuguese pronunciation: [akaɾaˈʒɛ]).

Freshly made akara with its crispy, golden-brown exterior, and soft, fluffy interior combined with a soft, pillowy feel bread which its tenderness gives a gentle, cushiony bite. Each bite, transports you to a savory and slightly spicy flavour from the akara, mellowed by the bread's mild sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of tastes that are so satisfying (hmm).

This combo is a unique and enjoyable experience one can spend his/her entire Cowrywise savings for!

While you were salivating and mind transporting, hope you landed smoothly(laughs). Before concluding, allow me to serve you another shocker, do you know that the delightful combo can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease in the body. Though, bread is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide a quick form of energy while beans, a great source of plant-based protein, is high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, it is advisable to consume with caution.

My verdict; Is akara and bread combo the ultimate Naija steeze, of course yes, but it should be enjoyed in moderation, incorporating more vegetables and fruits to the meal, make steeze no go choke you. Occasional indulgence is advisable rather than regular consumption.

Finally, as I enjoy the last bite of my akara and bread sandwich with me,&nbsp;I wonder what other culinary Nigeria bizarre would be next. Until then, keep your mouths open to receive and your taste buds adventurous!

The crunchy and delightful akara and bread

The popular Nigerian breakfast, akara meaning “bean cake or beans fritters” is usually combined with either bread or fermented corn pudding called ogi or akamu - the trio are sometimes eaten together.

Pulse Bizarre Bites: Is akara and bread the ultimate Naija steeze?

Generally, all African cuisines created are a combination of vegetables, fruits, beef/meat, cereals, and locally made spices.

Varying from West Africa, Central Africa, East Africa, North Africa, and Southern Africa, they all have <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/10-african-countries-with-the-best-foods-in-the-world/0tfclwg" title="5 African dishes to celebrate Africa Day 2024">unique ingredients and recipes that make tasty and brain-busting dishes</a>.

<h2>These are some of the most popular African dishes that you should try</h2>

In the season of celebrating Africa Day, I have compiled five easy dishes which you can pick from, including their ingredients and procedures for you and your family to experience your Motherland cuisine that will leave your taste bud yearning for more!

<h3>1. Egusi soup - Nigeria</h3>

Egusi is one of the most popular soups and is generally accepted and eaten by all tribes in Nigeria.

Ground melon seed, beef, fish, and other kinds of protein and vegetables are used to create this beautiful dish.

Egusi soup can be eaten with any kind of swallow like eba (garri), Semovita, fufu, etc.

<ul><li>4 cups of ground melon seeds (depends on the number of servings)&nbsp;</li></ul>

NB: To make Egusi paste, pour water according to the quantity and mix to form balls.

<ul><li>Boiled beef and fish (protein options are personal preference)</li><li>1 bulb onion</li><li>3 - 5 fresh pepper or ground pepper</li><li>Half cup of palm oil</li><li>Salt (to taste)</li><li>Ground crayfish</li><li>Sliced pumpkin leaves</li><li>Sliced waterleaf</li><li>A small quantity of sliced bitter leaf (washed)</li></ul>

<ol><li>Get a pot, pour in the palm oil, and heat on medium heat for a minute.</li><li>Scoop ball sizes of egusi paste mixture into the heated palm oil.&nbsp;</li><li>Pour in the meat stock or broth.</li><li>Leave to simmer for 20 – 30 minutes to allow the balls to cook properly.</li><li>Add the beef and fish and other protein.</li><li>Add sliced pumpkin leaves and waterleaf.</li><li>Stir, cover the pot and allow to cook for 7 - 10 minutes.</li><li>Add the bitter leaf, check seasoning and salt for taste.</li><li>Leave the pot open while it cooks for 5 - 10 minutes.</li></ol>

<h3>2. Nkate nkwan (peanut butter soup) - Ghana</h3>

Nkate nkwan&nbsp;is one of the most popular soups in Ghana. It is made from peanuts which is why most people refer to it as groundnut soup or peanut butter soup. This soup is made up of peanuts, onions, tomatoes, and pepper.

It's served with 'Omo tuo and fufu.

<ul><li>3 lb chicken (with bone)</li><li>6 kpakpo shito peppers (petite belles)</li><li>2 onions</li><li>3 cloves of garlic (optional)</li><li>1 (1-inch) piece of fresh ginger</li><li>3 large ripe tomatoes</li><li>4 cups of chicken stock</li><li>2 bay leaves</li><li>Scotch bonnet pepper or chili powder (according to taste)</li><li>½ cup unsweetened peanut butter</li><li>2 cups of water (plus extra as needed)</li><li>10 whole okra pods</li></ul>

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/10-african-countries-with-the-best-foods-in-the-world/0tfclwg">5 African countries with the best foods in the world</a>

<ol><li>Get a pot, and place the chicken pieces into a pot. Cut off the top and bottom edges of the onions and add them whole into the pot.</li><li>Add the tomatoes whole into the pot, removing the core tips. Add the garlic and ginger into the pot. They may be grated or added whole, then processed afterward.</li><li>Add the bay leaves, kpakpo shito, and chicken stock then bring to a boil and simmer until tender.</li><li>Prepare the peanut sauce while the soup is simmering by placing the peanut butter into a pot and mixing it with ½ a cup of water. This will allow the peanut butter to meld well with the water before adding the rest.</li><li>Place the peanut sauce on high heat and add the remaining water. Simmer for about 20 minutes until peanut oil rises to the surface.</li><li>When the onions and tomatoes are soft, remove them from the broth and place them into a blender. If you want the soup to be very spicy, you may add some of the kpakpo shito now.</li><li>Process them in the blender, then pour them back into the soup and stir. Simmer for five minutes.</li><li>Pour the peanut sauce into the soup and allow to simmer for 15 minutes.</li><li>Cut off the head and tail of the okra and boil them briefly before adding them to the soup. It's used as a garnish.</li></ol>

<h3>3.&nbsp;Sukuma wiki&nbsp;- Kenya</h3>

Sukuma wiki is a very tasty and nutritious vegetable dish. This dish consists of different vegetables like kale or collard greens, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It's mostly served with ugali/sadza (cooked white cornmeal), roasted meat, or fish.

<ul><li>1 cup of palm oil</li><li>Chopped tomatoes&nbsp;</li><li>Fresh kale or collard greens&nbsp;</li><li>Salt</li><li>Seasoning cubes</li><li>2-3 bulbs of onion</li><li>1-2 clove of garlic&nbsp;</li><li>Beef&nbsp;</li><li>Chili pepper</li></ul>

<ol><li>To prepare the collard greens wash, pat dry, cut out the thick stems, remove ribs and chop the leaves.</li><li>Pour sukuma wiki in a pot, add onions finely sliced, and add salt and black pepper.</li><li>Cook beef/meat till done.&nbsp;</li><li>Fry the diced tomatoes or paste well, for the mixture to dry before adding the collard greens or kale.</li><li>Add collard greens or kale, when you do this, cook to your desired preference either soft or crunchy.</li></ol>

<h3>4. Chakalaka and pap - South Africa</h3>

Chakalaka and pap is a South African vegetable spicy dish.&nbsp;If you set foot on South African soil, don't leave without eating this amazing dish. It's easy to prepare and the best option to serve at a get-together party.

<ul><li>1 bulb of onion (chopped)</li><li>2 carrots (grated)</li><li>3 tomatoes (chopped)</li><li>1 tablespoon of curry powder</li><li>¼ cabbage (sliced)</li><li>Salt, seasoning, and freshly ground black pepper</li><li>Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)</li><li>1 x 410g of tin red beans or baked beans</li><li>1 or 1/2 spoon of sugar, to taste</li></ul>

<ul><li>2 cups of water</li><li>480g maize meal</li><li>Salt, to taste</li><li>Knob of butter, to serve</li></ul>

ALSO READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/7-most-popular-african-breakfast/4xbm359">What breakfast is like in 7 African countries</a>

<ol><li>Get a saucepan, and fry the onion, carrots, tomatoes, and curry powder together for five minutes (medium heat)</li><li>Add the cabbage, seasoning to taste, ground black pepper, and some cayenne pepper to make it spicier.</li><li>Stir in the beans, cover the saucepan and cook over low heat, for 30 minutes.</li><li>Taste at the end and adjust with a bit of sugar if it is too acidic.</li></ol>

<ol><li>Boil water in a saucepan, and add the maize meal and some salt.</li><li>Stir until combined, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, stirring now and then (low heat)</li><li>Stir in the knob of butter when the pap is ready.</li></ol>

<h3>5. Domoda - Senegal</h3>

Domoda is a delicious dish majorly made from peanuts and it's also called "groundnut stew." This is a Senegalese dish that consists of veal, lamb, beef, balls of fish, tomato paste, onions, vegetables, and a lot of lemons.

The stew is thickened with flour and water paste when the sauce is cooked.

<ul><li>1 lb beef steak or 1 lb chicken breast,&nbsp;</li></ul>

Note: Cut into ½ inch chunks (or use bone-in chicken pieces and simmer them in the sauce; once cooked leave the pieces whole or remove the meat from the bones and add it back to the stew.)

<ul><li>1 large bulb of onion (diced)</li><li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li>3 cloves garlic (grated)</li><li>3 Roma tomatoes (diced)</li><li>½ can (3 oz) tomato paste</li><li>¾ cup natural, unsweetened peanut butter</li><li>4 seasoning cubes</li><li>3 cups water</li><li>Scotch bonnet chilies (diced)</li><li>4 cups pumpkin or sweet potato (diced)</li><li>Salt and pepper to taste</li></ul>

<ol><li>Heat the oil in a big pot, add onions and saute the onions until golden.&nbsp;</li><li>Add the beef, veal, lamb, and fish, then add garlic and continue to sauté until the beef is no longer pink.&nbsp;</li><li>Add the tomatoes and cook for three minutes.&nbsp;</li><li>Add the tomato paste, chilies, and peanut butter and stir to combine.&nbsp;</li><li>Add water and seasoning cubes.</li><li>Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.&nbsp;</li><li>Add pumpkin, cover, and continue to cook for 35 - 40, until the pumpkin is tender.</li><li>&nbsp;Stir occasionally, season with salt and pepper.</li><li>Serve hot with rice.&nbsp;</li></ol>

African cuisines have unique ingredients and techniques that make them distinctive, attractive, and delicious.

You can cook these 5 African dishes to celebrate Africa Day 2024

<h2>Driving down memory lane, plastic surgery used to be a thing for affluent members of society, considered too expensive, too vain and unimportant.</h2>

But, in recent times, it has become a go-to process for the corrections of almost everything concerned with the human body. Plastic surgery involves the improvement and reconstruction of a person's appearance either facially or in body tissues.

With the advent of more information in this aspect, quite a lot of people have dived into plastic surgeries for different reasons. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, below are some of the most popular reasons people do plastic surgeries:

<ul><li>48% want to feel more confident</li><li>47% want to look as young as they feel</li><li>34% want to improve their physical attractiveness</li><li>23% want to appear more fit or in shape</li></ul>

Based on these reasons, the plastic surgery industry is growing fast and offers many procedures to enhance people's appearance as they desire. In this article, we will be taking a look at the top 5 countries with the highest rates of plastic surgery;

<ol><li>United States: The amazing works of its well-established healthcare system and cutting-edge technology precedes its name. United States has highly skilled surgeons with numerous prestigious medical institutions and world-class hospitals which places the country as the top popular country for plastic surgery. The country has a wide range of surgical procedures, from complex cardiac surgeries to innovative orthopedic interventions.</li><li>South Korea: Based on the statistics from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), South Korea topped the chart with the highest rate of plastic surgeries per capita since 2009. It's interesting to know that one in three women between the ages of 19 and 29 has done some form of plastic surgery like double eyelid surgery and jawline reduction which is the most popular in the country.</li><li>Argentina: The country isn’t just the most popular country for plastic surgery, it has a well-established aesthetics industry with over 2,000 plastic surgeons. Despite their economic downsides, medical tourists (patients) pour in seeking high-quality cosmetic surgeons. Argentina is well known for breast augmentation and liposuction surgeries.</li><li>Brazil: Brazil’s breast augmentation and liposuction surgeries are in constant high demand for medical tourists. In 2021, Brazil led the chart with over 1.6 million cosmetic surgery procedures.</li><li>Columbia: Columbia emerged fourth ranking in the most popular country for plastic surgery based on its high-quality procedures at a lower cost than many other countries. According to ISAPS, Colombia performed over 500,000 cosmetic procedures in 2019.</li></ol>

This data is sourced and collated from Statista and American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Plastic surgery has become the go-to process for the corrections of almost everything concerned with the human body

Driving down memory lane, plastic surgery used to be a thing for affluent members of society which most people considered to be expensive or less important.

Top 5 countries with the highest rates of plastic surgery procedures

<h2>The late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Pastor Temitope Balogun, "TB" Joshua has been accused by former members of many abuses including rape, torture, and forced abortion.</h2>

The popular televangelist suddenly died on June 5, 2021, just a week before his 58th birthday.

Here are seven things to know about the spiritual leader.

He was born on June 12, 1963, in Arigidi Akoko, Nigeria and hails from Ondo State. <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/entertainment/celebrities/ex-members-accuse-pastor-tb-joshua-of-rape-torture-forced-abortion/7mrlgnt">TB Joshua was born</a> into a poor family which shaped his compassionate outlook on life.

TB Joshua attended St. Stephen's Anglican primary school in Arigidi Akoko from 1971 to 1977 but didn’t complete one year of his secondary school education. He also attempted to join the military but a train breakdown left him stranded on his way to the military academy.

TB Joshua was married to Evelyn Joshua for over 30 years, and the couple had three children named Serah, Promise, and Joseph.

TB Joshua, late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN)

“It will rain till the end of this week to wipe away the Coronavirus” – TB Joshua declares

He <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/tb-joshua-accused-of-secretly-targeting-white-people-as-payback-for-slavery/qc8gzmz">founded SCOAN in 1987</a>, a ministry renowned for its global outreach, humanitarian efforts, and the Emmanuel TV network which had more than 15,000 members.

<h3>5. Philanthropy</h3>

Beyond his spiritual leadership, he supported numerous philanthropic initiatives. A 2011 Forbes article about the five richest pastors in Nigeria estimated that T.B. Joshua spent $20 million on education, healthcare and rehabilitation programmes for former Niger Delta militants.

He also donated over ₦26 million to restore electricity in four councils in the Akoko area of Ondo State, and also made donations to police forces in Nigeria, Ghana, and Columbia. The televangelist also built the Emmanuel School in Lahore, Pakistan and rebuilt a school destroyed by the 2016 Ecuador earthquake.

TB Joshua curses Zimbabweans; Spreading False News

<h3>6. Miracles and prophecies</h3>

The minister was widely known for his prophetic messages and miracles. His miracle ministry gained international attention in which people from different parts of the country would come with diverse health issues hoping for a divine transformation.

Furthermore, he was also known for performing exorcisms on people allegedly possessed by evil spirits. Celebrities like; Kwabla Senanu, Camilla Mberekpe, Denise Williams, and Jim Iyke all claimed to have been delivered by TB Joshua.

TB Joshua did not only perform miracles, he predicted events worldwide, including the death of Michael Jackson, the 2012 and 2013 winners of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and many others.

Emmanuel TV became a powerful tool for spreading TB Joshua’s teachings and ministry globally. The TV network was widely known across Africa and Latin America and had a large social media presence with over 6 million fans on Facebook and over one million subscribers on YouTube.

Controversial Nigerian 'Prophet', Pastor TB Joshua, dies aged 57

The late founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), Prophet Temitope Balogun, "TB" Joshua has been accused by former members of many abuses including rape, torture, and forced abortion.

7 things to know about the controversial Pastor TB Joshua

Thanksgiving is a federal holiday in the United state which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of every November and for this year, it was held on Thursday 24, 2022.&nbsp;

The American holiday entails giving thanks and having a thanksgiving dinner which consists of foods like; mashed potatoes, turkey, stuffing, squash, corn (maize), green beans, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce.

While pots are boiling, ovens are baking dishes, and turkey is being prepared with the hope that it comes out good, Nigerians see it to be a day just like every other day.&nbsp;

Thanksgiving holiday isn't observed in Nigeria because practically every day is Thanksgiving. Nigerians are always thankful for all things, ranging from surviving traffic jams, passing a test or exam, arriving home safely, being thankful for loved ones and friends, etc.&nbsp;

In addition, churches are also a part of the ''continuous thanksgiving" in Nigeria. Weekly or monthly thanksgiving services are held specially for members with their families to give thanks. Some go the extra mile by coming along with food items, souvenirs, and gifts which are shared among the congregation.&nbsp;

In terms of special food preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday in the US, Nigerians are always ready to prepare meals any day and anytime especially traditional meals. Traditional meals are their first go-to option when preparing meals and it can be quite tedious and exhausting but they are so in love with them that they can afford to prepare them every day.&nbsp;

American Thanksgiving celebration is a beautiful holiday that should be enjoyed to the fullest but to Nigerians, it's just a day like another day in Nigeria.&nbsp;

Do we celebrate thanksgiving in Nigeria?

Thanksgiving 2022: What it means for Nigerians

Lack of proper health treatment stands in the way of hair growth. You don’t need a lot of natural treatment options, just the right one.

To help you figure out which treatment works for you and faster, let's dive in;

1) Egg yolk treatment

Eggs contain lecithin and protein that strengthen, nourish, and heal your hair strands, especially if your hair breaks before it gets to your shoulders. Egg masks also help in treating dandruff.

<ul><li>Pour in a container two eggs with two tablespoons of olive oil and mix.&nbsp;</li><li>Add one or two cups of water to dilute the mixture (this makes it less sticky).&nbsp;</li><li>Apply the mask directly to the dry, brushed hair, and leave it on for 30 minutes.&nbsp;</li><li>Then, shampoo and condition hair.</li></ul>

2) Hot castor oil treatment

Castor oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties to curb scalp infections that prevent your hair from growing.&nbsp;

Castor oil contains vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and proteins that seal your hair shaft retains hair moisture and promotes hair growth.

<ul><li>Pour castor oil into your palm, then massage the oil into your scalp&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Ensure you apply it to the ends of your strands.</li><li>After massaging, cover it with a shower cap, and blow-dry with a blow dryer for 15 minutes.&nbsp;</li><li>Shampoo and condition your hair&nbsp;</li></ul>

3) Scalp Massaging

Sometimes, we forget that our scalp is our hair foundation. So, for healthy long hair, you need a healthy scalp.

Research reveals that a scalp massage has a beneficial effect on stress, hormones, blood pressure, and heart rate.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Place your hands on your scalp and massage.&nbsp;</li><li>You can add hair oil for better results.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Doing this frequently, will increase blood flow to your scalp, enhance the strength of your roots, and help nutrients get to your follicle faster.

Stress harms the body and can cause hair loss.&nbsp;

To avoid hair loss or breakage, ensure you keep your stress level to a minimum by engaging in less strenuous activities and allocating a few minutes a day to meditation.

Having long hair is every lady's desire but it's no easy feat.

Do It Yourself: Hair treatments that will grow your hair in 1 month

According to Wikipedia, "world chocolate day is sometimes referred to as International Chocolate Day, or just Chocolate Day. It's an annual celebration of chocolate occurring globally on July 7, which some suggest to be the anniversary of the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550. The observance of World Chocolate Day dates back to 2009".

Every year, this day permits chocolate lovers worldwide to satisfy their taste buds with their favorite treat without any obstruction.&nbsp;

Where does chocolate come from?

Chocolate is gotten from a small tropical tree called the Theobroma cacao tree. The cacao tree is native to Central and South America, but it is grown commercially throughout the tropics.

The cacao tree produces pods that serve as a shell for a sticky white pulp with about 30 to 40 seeds. The seeds in the pod are incredibly bitter, not even close to the chocolate you eat!&nbsp;

The beans are taken from the pods and placed in wooden bins, which are covered with banana leaves and left to ferment. This procedure changes the bitter flavors in the beans to a chocolatey flavor.&nbsp;

After fermentation, the seeds are dried in the sun for a week and when the seeds are dried, they are transferred to the factory for processing.

Delectable Chocolate dishes

Now that you're aware of where chocolate is gotten from, I have curated delicious dishes to help spice up your chocolate celebration.

I made this specially for my fellow chocolate lovers gang. Let's dive into the chocolatey dishes to make this day more chocolicious! (winks an eye).

It's a chocolate pudding also known as lava cake. It's a beautiful dish that will make you drool when looking at it, and after eating, you will keep craving for more.

<ul><li>100g chopped dark chocolate</li><li>50g flour</li><li>150g light brown soft sugar</li><li>150g butter for baking &amp; greasing</li><li>3 large eggs</li><li>Cream for serving</li><li>½ tsp vanilla extract</li></ul>

1) Rub butter on 6 basins or dariole moulds and place them on a baking tray. Also, heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.&nbsp;

2) Put butter and chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and place in the microwave, to melt for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly for 15 mins.

3) Mix light brown soft sugar, 3 large eggs, ½ tsp vanilla extract, and flour (all these ingredients should be added one at a time). Pour the mixture into the 6 basins or darioles moulds.&nbsp;

4) Bake for 10-12 mins until the tops are firm but the middles still feel squidgy.

5) Run a knife around the edge of each pudding carefully, then place it on serving plates and pour cream on the cake.&nbsp;

This is another sweet dish that will not just sweeten your day but brighten your day.

For the cheesecake

<ul><li>200g full-fat cream cheese</li><li>150g dark chocolate</li><li>2 tsp cocoa powder</li><li>120ml double cream</li><li>115g caster sugar</li></ul>

&nbsp;For the biscuit base

<ul><li>150g digestive biscuits (about 10 packs)</li><li>50g melted butter</li><li>1 tbsp caster sugar</li></ul>

1) For the biscuit base, crush the digestive biscuits with a rolling pin or food processor, then pour into a bowl the sugar and butter and stir to combine.&nbsp;

Butter and line an 18cm springform tin and pour in the biscuit mixture, pushing it down with the back of a spoon. After doing this, chill in the fridge for 30 mins.

2) For the cheesecake, melt the chocolate in the microwave, then leave to cool slightly. Whip the cream in a large bowl using an electric whisk until soft peaks form, then fold in the cocoa powder and allow it to cool.&nbsp;

Beat the cream cheese and sugar together, then fold in the cream mixture and the cooled chocolate.

3) Pour the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base and push it down with the back of a spoon. Place into the freezer and freeze for 2 hours, until it's set.&nbsp;

Remove from the tin and leave at room temperature to soften for about 20 mins before serving.

<h3>3) Chocolate Tiffin</h3>

Treat yourself to this goodness of chocolate tiffin slices, embodied with milk, dark chocolate, raisins, and biscuit.&nbsp;

Warning: You will eat them all within 2mins!

<ul><li>225g crushed biscuits</li><li>110g milk chocolate</li><li>110g dark chocolate</li><li>150g butter, (keep extra for tin)</li><li>6 tsp cocoa powder</li><li>3 tbsp golden syrup</li><li>A handful of raisins</li><li>3 tbsp caster sugar</li></ul>

1) Melt the butter, sugar, syrup, and cocoa in a large saucepan. Then, pour the biscuits and raisins. Also, butter and line a 15-20cm tin with baking parchment.

2) Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and then smooth the top with the back of a spoon. Microwave the white &amp; dark chocolates for 20 seconds, then stir frequently, until melted.&nbsp;

Pour them over the mixture in the tin. Use a spoon to smooth it over, so it's completely covered in chocolate.

3) Put the tin into the fridge and leave for about 2 hours to set, or overnight, then cut into squares and serve.&nbsp;

<h3>4) Chocolate Mousse</h3>

The chocolate mousse dish has a light silky and smooth feel in the mouth. Eating this dessert will drive you safely to heaven without 'gallops'(laughs).&nbsp;

<ul><li>1 cup of Heavy cream</li><li>1/4 Powdered sugar</li><li>1/4 Cocoa Powder</li><li>Almond or vanilla flavoring (optional)</li></ul>

1) Place your mixing bowl in the freezer to chill for 30 minutes to help the cream whip faster and stiffer. Then, sift the cocoa powder before adding it to the cream to get a smooth, consistent, and pretty mousse.

2) After 30 minutes, pour the heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Use an electric mixer to begin whipping.&nbsp;Whip the cream until it becomes slightly thickened.

3) When the cream is slightly thickened, add the powdered sugar, sifted cocoa powder, and flavoring (optional).&nbsp;

Then, whip them until you achieve the soft peaks form (Peak form is when the mixture falls onto itself, it doesn’t stand up but it does leave a track). Ready to serve.

<h3>5) Chocolate chocolate chip skillet cookies</h3>

These Chocolate dishes won't be complete if chocolate chocolate chip skillet cookies is not added. These cookies taste amazingly sweet but will leave you screaming for more.

<ul><li>6 tablespoons unsalted butter</li><li>2 tablespoons cocoa powder</li><li>3/4 cup packed light-brown sugar</li><li>1 &amp; half cups of semisweet chocolate chips</li><li>1 large egg</li><li>1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li><li>1 cup all-purpose flour</li><li>/2 teaspoon baking soda</li><li>1/2 teaspoon coasre salt</li></ul>

1) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Get a large bowl, mix butter and sugar with a wooden spoon. Pour in egg and vanilla, then flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Add chocolate chips and stir thoroughly.

2) Transfer batter to a 10-inch ovenproof nonstick skillet and smoothen the top.&nbsp;Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still gooey. Allow it to cool off for 10 minutes before serving with vanilla ice cream as toppings.&nbsp;

It's the world's chocolate day!

5 chocolate dishes to celebrate World Chocolate Day 2022

Nicknames are vital in relationships because it helps to 'get the love sweeter' between both parties. During a relationship, there will come a time when calling your boo by his actual name sounds boring.&nbsp;

Searching for the perfect romantic name and calling him by that name refreshes the relationship.&nbsp;Although, picking a name for your man is crucial because it should mirror your understanding and love for him.&nbsp;

Ladies, here are 20 romantic names to call your Man (with meanings)

Calling your man a sweet name helps to strengthen the bond between both of you but getting the name that suits him, can be frustrating.&nbsp;

Not to worry, I have compiled a list of romantic names and their meanings for you to choose from:&nbsp;

1) Adorable - A romantic name for a man that melts your heart

2) Amante - A cute name that means ‘lover’ in Spanish

3) Bambi - A name for a cute and stylish boo

4) Bam Bam - This name is for a man full of energy

5) Berry - A sweet name for a fantastic guy

6) Bibbles - A man that exhibits positive vibes

7) Bubba - This name is for a guy dear to your heart

8) Cadillac - A cute name for a classy and intelligent man

9) Dovey - A name for a kind, sweet and caring boo

10) Favorite - A guy that has a special place in your heart

Happy couple sharing a smile [Credit: Dean Mitchell  Getty]

11) Ferrie - A name for a courageous and strong man

12) Gem - A lovely name for a guy precious to you

13) Heartie - For the guy who has the key to your heart

14) Hottie Tottie - A sweet name for an incredibly sexually attractive guy

15) Kiya - A name fit for a charming and fun guy

16) Mine - A guy, whose heart, body, and soul belongs to you

17) Precious - A man you hold in high esteem

18) Sugar Bear - A nice name for a guy, you feel connected to on all levels

19) Sunshine -&nbsp;For a man that shows you love and warmth

20) Vita Mia - an amazing name for a man who is your life

Deborah Akwa

Articles written by the author

Pulse Bizarre Bites: Okra soup & rice, a combo for Nigerian millennials or just odd?

Pulse Bizarre Bites: Is akara and bread the ultimate Naija steeze?

You can cook these 5 African dishes to celebrate Africa Day 2024

Top 5 countries with the highest rates of plastic surgery procedures

7 things to know about the controversial Pastor TB Joshua

Thanksgiving 2022: What it means for Nigerians

Do It Yourself: Hair treatments that will grow your hair in 1 month

5 chocolate dishes to celebrate World Chocolate Day 2022

Ladies, here are 20 romantic names to call your Man (with meanings)

4 reasons men should gift their baby mamas

6 Celebrity mums with attractive bodies

Dark spots on the skin: 4 Remedies you never thought of

DIY: 4 Quick remedies to get rid of dark underarm naturally

Do it yourself: 6 foods to make if you have a stomach ulcer

Do It Yourself: 3 smoothies that makes oral sex better

2 amazing ways of making bitter kola drinks