How to make Nigerian Soft Semovita Swallow
How to make Nigerian Soft Nigerian Semovita Swallow
Cuisine: NigerianDifficulty: MediumServings
4
servingsPrep time
3
minutesCooking time
10
minutesTotal time
13
minutesSemovita, often simply called “Semo,” is a smooth, starchy swallow made from refined semolina wheat. It’s a popular Nigerian meal often served with soups like Egusi, Ogbono, Oha, Okra or Efo Riro.
Ingredients
2 cups semovita (semolina wheat flour)
4 cups clean water
Extra hot water (for adjusting consistency)
Directions
- Boil the Water
In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of clean water to a boil over medium heat. - Add Semovita Gradually
Reduce the heat to low.
Using one hand, pour the semovita in slowly into the boiling water while stirring with a wooden spatula or turning stick in the other hand.
Stir continuously and quickly to avoid lumps forming. - Mix Thoroughly
Stir until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, stretchy, and lump-free.
If it’s too thick, add a little hot water, cover for 2–3 minutes, then stir again. - Mold and Serve
Wet your hands with water and scoop into smooth, rounded balls.
Serve hot with your preferred Nigerian soup.
Notes
- Best Soups to Serve With Semovita:
Egusi soup
Ogbono soup
Efo Riro (Vegetable soup)
Bitterleaf soup
Afang or Okra soup
Oha soup - Always stir continuously while adding semovita to prevent lumps.
Adjust consistency to your liking soft, medium, or firm.
Semovita thickens slightly as it cools, so take that into account when cooking.