Liberian Thanksgiving is observed annually on the first Thursday of November, as decreed in 1870. This year, it falls on November 7, 2024.

While turkey is not a traditional Liberian Thanksgiving dish, popular menu items include:

– Roasted chicken
– Mashed cassava or potato salad
– Jollof rice
– Sweet potato pone
– Ginger beer
– Pepper chicken
– Rice bread
– Collard greens

Liberian Thanksgiving is a celebration of freedom, family, and community. It’s also a time for reflection on the country’s history and heritage.

Today, Liberians celebrate Thanksgiving with:

– Church services
– Family gatherings
– Traditional drumming
– Dancing
– Feasting
– Bonfires

Whether you’re in Liberia or the diaspora, Liberian Thanksgiving is a time to connect with heritage and give thanks for life’s blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving to all Liberians at home and abroad.

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Boiled peanuts are a beloved snack in Liberia, offering a unique flavor and texture that’s both addictive and delicious.

Boiled peanuts originated in the Southern United States during the Civil War era. Soldiers would boil peanuts to make them more palatable and filling. Today, boiled peanuts are enjoyed at ballgames, parties and social gatherings in America, Liberia and around the world.

Benefits of Boiled Peanuts

1. High in protein and fiber
2. Rich in vitamins and minerals
3. Low in calories
4. Gluten-free

Boiled peanuts offer a unique taste experience, rich history and numerous benefits. Whether you’re a Liberiannative or just discovering this delicacy, boiled peanuts are sure to become a favorite snack.

Classic Boiled Peanut Recipe

Ingredients
– 3 pounds raw peanuts, in the shell
– 1 gallon water
– 1/2 cup salt

Instructions
1. Wash peanuts, cover with water and add salt.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cover.
3. Simmer 2-4 hours or until tender.
4. Let sit 30 minutes before serving.

Variations and Seasonings

1. Spicy boiled peanuts: add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

2. Smoky boiled peanuts: add smoked paprika or chipotle peppers.

3. Herby boiled peanuts: add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Boiled peanuts are an integral part of Liberian and Southern culture, symbolizing hospitality and community.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Boiled Peanuts: A Liberian  Delicacy appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

What is Palava Sauce Soup?

Palava Sauce is a popular Liberian dish made with a flavorful combination of Palava/Jute leaves, meat or fish, spices, seasonings and a rich palm oil-based sauce. Would you like to hear a funny fact about the word “Palava”? In Liberia, the name “Palava” comes from a word from “trouble” or “problem,” possibly referencing the soup’s ability to bring people together.

All ingredients for Palava cause can be purchased from the African or Middle Eastern grocery stores in your local community. These are the major ingredients needed for Palava Sauce soup: Fresh/Frozen Palava Leaves, Red Palm Oil, Pepper (optional), Meat or Fish, Onions, Seasonings (based on your preference), Water or Broth.

Palava Sauce Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of community and connection. In Liberia, Palava Sauce comes primarily from the counties of Maryland and Grand Kru. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this Liberian staple is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Palava Sauce can be served with rice, fufu or cooked gari (farina).

Have you tried Palava Sauce Soup before? Order a bowl from Okra Pantry Shop. Please share your feedback and cooking tips or questions in the comments below!

The post Savoring LIB: The Flavors of Palava Sauce Soup appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

Cream of Wheat is made from wheat farina, this comforting dish provides a nutritious and delicious start to the day. This is one of children favorite breakfast porridge, I can never go wrong preparing this warm bowl of Cream of Wheat for them to eat before heading out to school.

In this post, we’ll explore the benefits and versatility of Cream of Wheat.

Benefits of Cream of Wheat:
– High in fiber: Supports healthy digestion and satiety

– Good source of iron: Essential for healthy red blood cells

– Low in calories: A guilt-free breakfast option

– Versatile: Customize with sweet or savory toppings

How to Enjoy Cream of Wheat:
– Classic recipe: Cook with milk or water and add sugar or honey to taste

– Fruit and spice: Mix in fresh fruits and cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor

– Savory twist: Add scrambled eggs, cheese, or herbs for a breakfast surprise

– Overnight oats: Combine with rolled oats and milk for a creamy, slow-cooked breakfast

Tips and Variations:
– Use different milks: Try almond, soy, or coconut milk for a non-dairy version

– Add some crunch: Mix in nuts, seeds, or granola for added texture

– Experiment with spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add unique flavors

Cream of Wheat is a timeless breakfast classic that offers a comforting and nutritious start to the day. With its versatility and numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder this beloved porridge remains a staple in many households. So go ahead, warm up with a bowl of Cream of Wheat, and enjoy the simple pleasures in life!

The post Warm Up with Cream of Wheat: A Comforting Breakfast Classic🥣🌾 appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

Our Story:
At Okra Pantry Foods, we’re passionate about sharing the rich culinary heritage of Liberia with the world. Our team of skilled chefs uses traditional recipes and fresh ingredients to craft delicious, nutritious meals that warm the heart and soul.

Our New Menu:
Indulge in our carefully curated selection of Liberian soups, each one freshly prepared to order and shipped across the USA:

– Soups: Cassava Leaves, Fried Okra, Palm Butter, Beans Torborgee, Kitteley Torborgee, Palava Sauce, Fried Potato Greens and Pepper Soup.

– New Spices: Dried Okra Powder, Dried Cayenne Pepper, Dried Kitteley Powder

Why Choose Our Meal Prep?
– Freshly prepared to order, ensuring maximum flavor and nutrition

– Shipped nationwide, so you can enjoy Liberian cuisine anywhere

– Convenient, easy-to-reheat packaging for busy lifestyles

– Authentic, traditional recipes from Liberia’s rich culinary heritage

– Healthy, wholesome ingredients to nourish body and soul

Order Now and Experience the Taste of Liberia!

Visit our shop, www.okrapantry.com/shop to explore our menu and place your order. Use promo code LIBERIANFOOD15 at checkout to receive 15% off your first order!

Stay Connected

Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on new menu items, promotions, and behind-the-scenes peeks into our kitchen:

www.facebook.com/okrapantryblog

Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey!

Best,

Angierach

Okra Pantry Foods LLC

P.S. Don’t forget to share your Liberian soup experiences with us on social media using #OkraPantryLiberianFood

The post Experience the Flavors of Liberia, Freshly Prepared and Shipped Right to Your Door! appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

This refreshing brew offers a multitude of benefits, from digestive aid to stress relief. Personally a warm cup of Spearmint Tea, is a part of my morning routine and helps me get a kick start to my day. I drink it plain with no added ingredients and for the past months I have noticed a lot of changes both internal and externally.

In this post, we’ll explore the advantages of incorporating spearmint tea into your daily routine.

Benefits of Spearmint Tea:

– Digestive aid: Relieves nausea, bloating, and indigestion

– Boosts energy: Natural caffeine-free energy enhancer

– Freshens breath: Antibacterial properties combat bad breath

– Relieves stress: Calming effects promote relaxation

– Eases menstrual cramps: Soothes PMS symptoms

– Supports weight loss: Suppresses appetite and increases metabolism

– Antioxidant-rich: Protects against cell damage and inflammation

How to Enjoy Spearmint Tea:

– Brew a cup: Steep fresh spearmint leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes

– Add a squeeze: Mix with lemon juice for extra flavor and benefits

– Make it iced: Chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing summer drink

– Combine with other herbs: Blend with peppermint or chamomile for unique flavors

Spearmint tea is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. With its numerous benefits and refreshing taste, it’s no wonder this herbal remedy has stood the test of time. So go ahead, brew a cup, and experience the revitalizing effects of spearmint tea for yourself!

The post The Refreshing Benefits of Spearmint Tea appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

Are you looking for a healthier alternative to rice? Quinoa is an excellent option!

This protein-rich grain is packed with nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a great substitute for rice in many dishes.

Nutritional Benefits:
Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber, iron, magnesium, and other essential minerals. Compared to rice, quinoa has:

– More protein (8g per cup vs 2g per cup)
– More fiber (5g per cup vs 0.6g per cup)
– More iron (2.5mg per cup vs 0.5mg per cup)

Culinary Uses:
Quinoa can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

– Salads
– Stir-fries
– Curries
– Stuffed peppers
– Veggie burgers

Tips for Cooking Quinoa:

– Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove saponins
– Use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio
– Cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender


Overall, Quinoa is a nutritious and versatile alternative to rice. With its high protein content, fiber, and essential minerals, it’s an excellent addition to a healthy.

The post Quinoa: The Nutritious Alternative to Rice🍚🌾 appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

Eat with your hands, feed your soul…

What’s your favorite dish to enjoy with your hands? Share with us!

For me…Yummy Red Oil Okra sauce with Fufu

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Here are some interesting facts:

Design:

• The flag features 11 horizontal stripes (5 red and 6 white) alternating in color.
• A white five-pointed star is centered on a blue square in the upper left corner (canton).

Symbolism:

• The 11 stripes represent the 11 signers of the Liberian Declaration of Independence.
• The red and white stripes symbolize courage and purity, respectively.
• The blue square represents the African continent.
• The white star, known as the “Lone Star,” signifies Liberia’s status as the first independent African republic.

History:

• Adopted on August 24, 1847, when Liberia declared independence.
• Designed by Susannah Lewis, a Liberian woman, inspired by the United States flag.
• Remains unchanged since its adoption.

Unique Features:

• Liberia’s flag is one of the oldest flags in Africa.
• The “Lone Star” nickname reflects Liberia’s pioneering role in African independence.
• The flag’s design has influenced other African countries’ flags.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• Liberians pledge allegiance to the flag, promising loyalty and devotion to their nation.
• The Liberian Pledge of Allegiance is:
  
  “I pledge allegiance to the flag of Liberia, And to the Republic for which it stands, One Nation, indivisible,
  With liberty and justice for all.”
  
  Note: This pledge is similar to the United States Pledge of Allegiance, reflecting Liberia’s historical ties with the United States as a colony established by the American Colonization Society in 1822.

The Liberian flag is a revered symbol of national pride, unity, and history. Its design and significance continue to inspire Liberians and Africans worldwide.

The post Happy Flag Day, Liberia! appeared first on OKRA PANTRY.

Cozy up with a plate of goodness! Dirty Rice, Fried Salmon, Chicken and Broccoli Yum!

#okrapantry #liberianfoodie #dirtyrice #friedsalmon #broccoli

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