LOCUST BEANS

 Locust beans are seeds obtained from the pods of the African locust tree.

African locust beans is sometimes called carob because of their similarities in appearance, but they are different from each other.

HOW IT IS PROCESSED INTO FINISH PRODUCT

The locust beans seed cannot be consumed in it raw form as it is pretty hard.

It is processed into locust beans mainly by traditional methods of washing, cooking and fermenting.

STEPS

✓Boil the seed in water for 24hrs to soften the hull.

✓Dehull by either pounding in mortal or pressing with palm.

✓Wash to separate the hull from the small brown beans.

✓Boil for 1-3hrs to soften the beans.

✓Fermentation for 3days.

✓Apply salt followed by partial drying in sun to preserve.

The revered organoleptic properties of this condiments develop during fermentation stage.

the finish product could be sold fresh,moulded into cakes and dried.

HOW IS FERMENTED LOCUST BEANS USED

It is used to flavour stews, sauce and other dishes like rice, native salad (abacha) etc.

It was one of the main condiments used in West Africa before bouillon cubes,and it is still an excellent alternative.it is high in protein,fat and calcium.

It has a strong taste and pungent aroma which is not particularly attractive but in a sauce or stew, it flavors enhance the taste,in a small African dishes like Ewedu, egusi, ogbono,eforiro,or okra soup delightfully lift the taste.

Fermented locust beans is now available in dry and powdered form, giving it a long shelf -life and making it easy to package and transport over long distances.

Powdered form makes it easy for people who do not like to bite/see the seed to enjoy the added depth of flavour locust beans adds to food.

HOW TO STORE FERMENTED LOCUST BEANS

Fermentation not only Help to develop the flavour and aroma of locust beans,it also help to preserve it.

This couple with salting and drying help maintain the product shelf-life without refrigeration.

Fresh locust beans can be stored in the fridge, while dried locust beans should be stored in an air-tight container.