Grain of Selim in Cooking

One of the most important ingredients often used in traditional cooking in Meritah (Africa) is commonly known in markets in the modern society as “negro pepper” or “grains of selim” (xylopia aethiopica). This spice is very well known throughout the continent and therefore has many different names. It is known as “uda” or “uda ewitea seed” in Nigeria, “djar” in Senegal, “hwentia” in Ghana, “kieng” in Cameroon, and “sozey” in Togo to name a few. It is even known simply as “African pepper” or “Ethiopian pepper” or even “Senegal pepper,” so be sure to view the spices when you go to the market, because chances are they have it just under a different name.