It’s the most wonderful time of the year when smoky jollof rice, small chops and fried meat make more appearances than Santa himself. But what if you’re trying to stay in shape? I gatchu!
With some clever choices, you can enjoy all the flavors of a Nigerian Christmas without turning your abs into “flabs.”
Here’s a list of delicious Nigerian Christmas meals that won’t sabotage your diet, because, let’s be honest, surviving Nigerian festivities is a skill.
Pepper Soup
Pepper soup is a lifesaver for those looking to eat clean while feeling like they’re indulging. Made with lean protein (like fish, chicken, or goat meat), a medley of spices, and no oil, it’s basically a gym session in a bowl.
And if you want to add extra vibes, throw in some unripe plantain slices—it’s delicious, filling, and you’ll still feel light enough to tackle that Christmas dance-off.
Grilled Fish or Chicken
Forget deep-fried everything; grilled is the way to go! Whether you’re munching on well-seasoned catfish or enjoying perfectly grilled chicken, grilling locks in flavor without piling on unnecessary calories.
Pro Tip: Add some suya spice for that extra kick of flavor. Pair it with a side of sautéed veggies, and you’ll be the healthiest person at the Christmas table.
Moi Moi
Moi moi is that one dish you can eat without guilt. It’s made from ground beans, rich in protein, and steamed—not fried. Plus, it’s versatile enough to stand alone or accompany rice dishes.
For extra health points, skip the oil altogether or use minimal amounts.
Nigerian Salad
Nigerian salad is not your average leafy greens—it’s a hearty mix of cabbage, carrots, eggs, baked beans, and sometimes pasta. The trick to keeping it healthy is in the dressing.
Skip the mountain of mayonnaise that turns it into an unrecognizable calorie bomb. Opt for a yogurt-based dressing instead. You’ll still get all the festive flavors without the guilt.
Ofada Rice and Ayamase
Ofada rice is unpolished and packed with fiber, making it a healthier choice than regular white rice.
Pair it with a small portion of ayamase (green pepper stew), but don’t go overboard with the palm oil and the organ meat (tinu eran) as they are high in cholesterol, regardless of the animal source.
Don’t forget, it’s a Christmas meal, not a competition to clog your arteries.
Fresh Fruit Platter
For dessert, ditch the cakes dripping with icing (or banana bread slices; stop deceiving yourself) and go for a fresh fruit platter.
You can enjoy pineapples, watermelon, and pawpaw that are sweeter than most pastries.
Sprinkle some lime juice for a zesty twist, and voilà—you’ve got a guilt-free end to your meal.
If you can help it, try to resist the temptation for these finger foods and their relatives
- Chin Chin: This crunchy snack might seem harmless, but those fried little delicacies are packed with hidden calories.
- Puff Puff: Delicious, yes. Waistline-friendly? Not at all. Eat sparingly or face the consequences during January’s fitness struggle.
This Christmas, you can enjoy all the flavours of different Nigerian cuisine without sacrificing your diet. The key is moderation, smart substitutions, and knowing when to say, “I’m full” (even though your aunty insists on piling more food on your plate).
Remember, looking good in 2025 starts with eating wisely in December. Enjoy the festivities, eat mindfully, and keep dancing—after all, that’s cardio too!
In case you forget all of these tips and manage to throw on some extra weight, you know what to do. I’ll be waiting for you on Fusion’s Health and Wellbeing community.
