Essèssè, also called the four-cornered pod, is the dried seed pod of Tetrapleura tetraptera, a tree of the African tropical forests. NKOSI offers it in pieces, in a 100 g bag: it is pounded or ground to flavour Cameroonian sauces and simmered soups.
What is essèssè (the four-cornered pod)?
The whole pod of Tetrapleura tetraptera is purple to dark brown, 15 to 20 cm long, marked with four prominent ridges which give it its French name "quatre côtés" (four corners): this bag contains dried pieces of it. It is found under other names depending on the country and language: essèssè or esèsè (Cameroon, Douala), sassas (Cameroon, Bassa), essissa (Cameroon, Ewondo), prekese (Ghana, Twi), uhio (Nigeria, Igbo). Its taste is woody, lightly peppery and slightly bitter.
How to use it?
Pound or grind the pieces in a mortar to obtain an aromatic powder, or add 2 to 3 pieces directly at the start of cooking to a Bamileke yellow sauce, a bongo'o bassa, a soup or a meat or fish stock. Let it infuse during cooking: remove the pieces before serving, or leave them in for more intensity.
What to pair it with?
For a ready-to-cook yellow sauce, NKOSI yellow sauce condiment draws directly on it. Essèssè also comes already ground or as a whole pod. The Cameroonian cooking range brings together the country's other spices and dishes.
Product information
- Brand: NKOSI
- Capacity: 100 g bag
- Ingredients: essèssè, Tetrapleura tetraptera, dried seed pod in pieces, with no other ingredient
- Allergens: none of the 14 regulated allergens: a single ingredient, the spice itself
- Origin: Cameroon
- Storage: away from heat, light and moisture, bag well closed after use
