In the heart of Ekiti State, southwest Nigeria, one dish continues to symbolize both tradition and togetherness — Iyan, known in English as pounded yam. Celebrated for its smooth texture and cultural significance, Iyan is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary emblem of Ekiti identity, often served during festivals, weddings, and family gatherings.
Prepared by pounding boiled yam into a soft, stretchy dough using a mortar and pestle, Iyan is typically paired with rich local soups such as Efo Riro, Egusi, or Obe Ila (okra soup). Its preparation demands strength, rhythm, and teamwork — often involving family members in a lively, communal process that reflects the Ekiti people’s values of unity and hospitality.
According to The Nation, many indigenes consider Iyan not just food but a symbol of pride, passed down through generations. In local households and eateries across Ado-Ekiti, the unmistakable sound of pounding yam remains a daily ritual that connects the past to the present.
Premium Times highlights that in recent years, younger chefs in Ekiti have begun modernizing Iyan preparation through food processors and electric pounders while retaining the dish’s authentic flavor. Culinary experts say this innovation helps preserve tradition while adapting to modern lifestyles.
Vanguard also reports that Iyan has gained growing attention among tourists and cultural enthusiasts, with Ekiti’s annual Yam Festival attracting visitors eager to taste the delicacy at its source. The festival features yam displays, cooking competitions, and cultural performances that honor the crop’s importance to Ekiti’s agrarian roots.
Beyond its flavor, Iyan symbolizes resilience and heritage, a dish that continues to unite communities and celebrate the bounty of the land.
Sources
The Nation — “Iyan: The Heart of Ekiti Cuisine,” Nov. 10, 2025
Premium Times — “Preserving Tradition Through Taste: The Evolution of Pounded Yam in Ekiti,” Nov. 10, 2025
Vanguard News — “Ekiti Yam Festival Celebrates Culture and Cuisine,” Nov. 10, 2025
Guardian Nigeria — “Why Iyan Remains Nigeria’s Most Celebrated Local Dish,” Nov. 10, 2025
