Does anyone else smell that?
That specific, smoky aroma of Jollof rice hitting the bottom of the pot? The rich, earthy scent of goat meat bubbling in a spicy stew? If you close your eyes, you might just be back in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt on a crisp December morning. The house is loud, the music is playing (probably Boney M or King Sunny Adé), and the kitchen is the busiest place on Earth.
But here we are in the UK. The weather outside is… well, it’s British weather. It might be cold and grey, but that doesn’t mean your Christmas dinner has to be.
At Niyis, we believe that food is more than just ingredients; it’s a bridge to a feeling. It’s memories on a plate. This Christmas, we want to help you recreate that "home" feeling right here in your UK kitchen. Whether you’re hosting the whole extended family or having a cosy celebration, this is your ultimate shopping list to ensure you don’t forget a single thing.
Let’s get your pantry ready for December 25th.
1. The "Christmas Rice" Essentials
Let’s be honest: is it even a Nigerian Christmas if there isn’t a cooler of Jollof Rice and a cooler of Fried Rice fighting for dominance on the table? This is the foundation of the feast.
-
The Rice: You need a grain that can stand up to the heat. We recommend Golden Sella Basmati for that non-sticky, party-perfect texture, or Long Grain Rice if you’re a traditionalist.
-
The "Red" Magic: You can’t make authentic Jollof without the right tomato paste. DeRica Tomato Paste is the gold standard for that deep, vibrant red colour and rich tanginess.
-
The Oil: Whether it’s vegetable oil for frying your plantain or the finest Palm Oil for your native stews, you need quality that doesn’t overpower the dish.
Niyis Tip: Don’t want to guess the quantities? Grab our Jollof Rice Recipe Box, it comes with the rice, DeRica paste, and spices all in one go!
Shop Rice & Grains Collection | Shop Oils
2. The "Swallow" Station
For the uncles and aunties who will ask, "Where is the real food?" when you serve them rice, you need a solid swallow station. This is the comfort food that warms the soul.
-
Pounded Yam: Let’s face it, nobody has the energy to pound yams from scratch on Christmas morning. Ayoola Poundo Yam is smooth, lump-free, and ready in minutes. It’s the closest you get to the mortar and pestle taste without the gym workout.
-
Garri & Amala: Depending on your family’s preference, stock up on Ijebu Garri or Elubo (Yam Flour) for a dark, fluffy Amala that pairs perfectly with Ewedu and Gbegiri.
3. The Meat Locker (The Main Event)
A Nigerian Christmas plate is measured by the height of the meat pile. You need variety, texture, and flavour.
-
Goat Meat: Essential for your Pepper Soup or Asun. You need cuts that are tender but still have that bite.
-
Turkey Wings: Christmas isn’t complete without giant, fried turkey wings. They need to be seasoned deep, boiled, and then fried until golden.
-
Hard Chicken (Hen): The flavour in "Hard Chicken" is unmatched for stews. It holds its shape during long cooking times, making it perfect for the big family pot.
-
Shaki (Tripe) & Cow Foot: Because what is a vegetable soup without "obstacles" to chew on?
4. The Flavour Architects (Spices & Seasonings)
You can have the best meat and rice, but without the right seasoning, it’s just... food. The magic lies in the spice cabinet.
-
Maggi / Knorr Cubes: The heartbeat of Nigerian cooking. Make sure you have the big pack; you’ll use more than you think!
-
Thyme & Curry Powder: The dynamic duo. You need high-quality curry powder (like Ducros or Lion) to get that authentic aroma.
-
Crayfish: Ground crayfish adds that hidden depth of umami to your soups and Jollof. It’s the secret ingredient your guests can taste but can’t quite place.
-
Suya Spice: Perfect for a quick pre-dinner snack or spicing up your grilled chicken.
5. Snacks & Drinks (The Welcome Wagon)
Before the main meal is served, your guests need something to nibble on. This is where the nostalgia really hits.
-
Chin Chin: Crunchy, milky, and addictive. Serve it in bowls around the living room.
-
Puff Puff Ingredients: Flour, yeast, sugar, nutmeg. Nothing says "Welcome" like the smell of frying Puff Puff.
-
Malt Drinks: A cold can of Maltina or Supermalt is non-negotiable. It’s the taste of childhood celebrations.
-
Chapman Ingredients: Grab your Fanta, Sprite, Grenadine, and Angostura bitters to mix up Nigeria’s favourite cocktail.
A Note on Preparation: "The Day Before"
We all know the rule: Nigerian Christmas cooking starts on Christmas Eve. The boiling of the meat, the blending of the peppers, the washing of the rice.
By shopping early with Niyis, you avoid the last-minute panic. Imagine opening your cupboard on December 24th and seeing everything there—the DeRica stacked high, the spices lined up, the meat defrosting in the fridge. That is peace of mind.
Bring the Celebration Home
This year, let’s make the table groan under the weight of good food. Let’s make the house smell like joy. Let’s show our UK friends and neighbours how we do it back home.
From our family to yours, we wish you a Christmas filled with laughter, loud music, and plates that never go empty.
🎄 Ready to Fill Your Pantry?
Don't wait until the snow falls (or the rain starts). Get everything sorted now so you can focus on the family.
Shop the Full Christmas Collection Here & Get Delivery to Your Doorstep
Share:
Assorted Meat Pepper Soup: A Step-by-Step Recipe for UK Ingredients
Stockfish vs. Dried Fish: Which Crown Belongs in Your Christmas Stew?