Obe Ata: Nigerian Red Pepper Sauce

Obe Ata is a vibrant red pepper sauce central to Nigerian cuisine, particularly Yoruba cooking. This aromatic base combines red bell peppers, scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes garlic, all blended and then slowly simmered until rich and flavorful.

To prepare authentic Obe Ata, blend the peppers, tomatoes, and onions until smooth. Heat palm oil (or vegetable oil) in a pot, then simmer the blended mixture on low heat, allowing the water to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. Season with salt, bouillon, and traditional spices like locust bean (iru) for depth.

Obe Ata serves as the foundation for numerous Nigerian stews and is traditionally paired with rice, yam, or enjoyed with protein like fish or beef.