FOOD IS BASIC

Food is a basic necessity of human existence; also for animals.

No matter where you are: whether in Tokyo, Sydney, London, New York or Lagos; we all eat one form of food or the other. And in my little experience, the more basic and natural the food is, the better. In such state the essential nutrients are preserved as well as the flavour.

This probably explains my interest when I encountered a joint in Badore, Lagos; that serves only porridge yam and beans or fried yam, all garnished with peppered ‘pomo’! Now we can go on about the nutritional value of ‘pomo’, but we can’t deny it’s a favourite delicacy in our environment. You may not eat it in huge lumps, but what about those little pieces you pick up in your vegetable and other African soups?

I had gone to Badore over some business matters and whilst waiting for my appointment, I engaged the joint proprietor, Nneka in a lively discussion. ‘Why do you serve only porridge yam and beans or fried yam?’ She explained, logically I suppose, that everybody was offering rice and swallow (you know what that means of course). That’s differentiation. ‘Ok. Why don’t you include beef, fish, chicken or other protein?’ Again, she had her answer ready. ‘The margin on ‘pomo’ is attractive, without burning a hole on the customers’ pocket. Business wisdom, especially in these recessed times. Nneka went on to reel out her clients to include bankers, business executives, security operatives and even royalty. Some on their way to work will place an order to be picked up on return in the evening. But while there, a continuous stream of clients from all strata of life came to eat or take away their order.

 

The food is prepared fresh and in manageable quantities. With a pressure cooker, the beans is ready in twenty minutes as the yam is frying on a gas burner. A quick blend of onions and fresh pepper flipped into the frying pan for five minutes provides the essential sauce and the boiled ‘pomo’ is garnished; all ready to serve. 

The portions of yam and beans porridge at hundred Naira apiece with ‘pomo’ at fifty Naira per portion, means you can get a yummy, delicious and fresh meal at about three hundred Naira or less. Fried yam goes for fifty Naira a piece. Interested in the numbers I asked her about daily takings. She said on a good day ten thousand Naira. Work that out on a six-day week and add the fact that food guarantees a reasonable margin… Recession? Think again.

Did I sample the meal? Of course and I would recommend the joint if you’re around the area. It is at DeGovernor Plaza, opposite Fidelity Bank on the Badore high street…