What is Salmon Fish Called in Nigeria? A Guide to This Nutritious Fish

Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish in the world. However, in Nigeria, there seems to be some confusion over what salmon is actually called. With different ethnic groups having their own names for fish, it can get confusing trying to identify salmon when shopping locally.

In this comprehensive guide, we will look at:

• What is salmon?
• Nutritional benefits of salmon
• Different names for salmon in Nigeria
• Where to buy salmon in Nigeria
• How to cook salmon the Nigerian way

What is Salmon?

Salmon is a species of fish that is found in the North Atlantic and Pacific oceans There are several species of salmon including

• Atlantic salmon
• Chinook salmon
• Coho salmon
• Pink salmon
• Chum salmon
• Sockeye salmon

Salmon belong to the family Salmonidae and are anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to grow and mature, and return to freshwater to spawn and reproduce

Some key features of salmon include

• Silvery colored skin
• Pink to orange flesh
• Small fin on their back
• Fatty meat

Salmon have a rich flavor and are oily fish due to their high fat content. They are highly prized for their nutritional value and delicious taste when cooked.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Here are some of the main health benefits of salmon:

• High in omega-3 fatty acids – Salmon is one of the best sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3s that promote heart and brain health.

• Good source of protein – Salmon contains high-quality protein needed for building and repairing muscles. A 3 ounce serving provides 17-18 grams of protein.

• Rich in B vitamins – It is an excellent source of B vitamins like niacin, B6 and B12 which help convert food into energy.

• Loaded with minerals – Salmon provides minerals like potassium, selenium and phosphorus which have various vital functions.

• Contains astaxanthin – This antioxidant is responsible for salmon’s pink color and provides protection against inflammation and oxidative damage.

Overall, incorporating salmon into your diet can help reduce inflammation, boost heart health, enhance brain function and keep your skin, hair and nails healthy.

Local Names for Salmon in Nigeria

In Nigeria, salmon seems to go by many local names which has created confusion around identifying this fish. Here are the most common local names that salmon is known by:

• Eja osan – This seems to be the most widely used name for salmon in Nigeria. Osan means “swimmer” in Yoruba.

• Panla osan – Panla means fish in Yoruba so this is another name that translates to salmon or swimmer fish.

• Eja alade – A name used by the Egba people of Ogun state. Alade means “one who comes and goes” referring to the migratory nature of salmon.

• Eja oyinbo – Oyinbo means white person in Yoruba. Since salmon is not native to Africa, it is seen as an imported “white man’s fish”.

• Titusa – Many people use the name titus to refer to salmon. However, titus actually refers to the local mackerel fish.

Where to Buy Salmon in Nigeria

Fresh salmon can be difficult to find in Nigeria, but frozen and smoked salmon is increasingly available. Here are some places where you can buy salmon in Nigeria:

• Supermarkets – Some major supermarkets like Shoprite and Spar stock frozen salmon usually imported from Norway or Scotland. Prices range from ₦2,000-₦5,000 for a pack.

• Open markets – Look for frozen fish sellers in markets like Balogun in Lagos, Ogbete Main Market in Enugu or Wuse Market in Abuja. Ask specifically for “eja osan”.

• Online stores – Several online stores like Purple Foods and Meat NG sell fresh and frozen salmon with delivery nationwide. Prices range from ₦3,500-₦5,000 per kg.

• Fish farms – Some aquaculture farms like Royal Pearl have started rearing salmon locally in Nigeria. But supply is still limited.

For the best quality and prices, check frozen stock in supermarkets or order online. Be sure to check the source and expiration date when buying.

How to Cook Salmon the Nigerian Way

Salmon is very versatile and can be prepared in different delicious ways. Try these popular Nigerian style salmon recipes:

1. Salmon pepper soup

• Steam or boil salmon fillets for 7-10 minutes till cooked through.
• Make a pepper soup broth with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, spices and chili pepper.
• Add salmon pieces and cook for 5 more minutes.
• Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.

2. Baked salmon puff-puff

• Flake boiled salmon and mix with chopped onions, peppers, spices and eggs.
• Add to puff puff dough and deep fry in hot oil for 5-7 minutes till golden.
• Serve with any dipping sauce of choice.

3. Salmon jollof rice

• Cook jollof rice as usual then add bite sized grilled or fried salmon chunks.
• Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes till the salmon is warmed through.
• Garnish with spring onions and serve hot.

4. Salmon skewers suya

• Coat salmon cubes with suya spice rub.
• Thread on skewers alternating with onions and peppers.
• Grill on a barbecue turning frequently till charred and cooked.
• Eat hot off the skewers.

5. Salmon coconut rice

• Cook salmon fillets in a coconut milk curry sauce.
• Serve on a bed of coconut rice garnished with cilantro.

Be sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and flavorful. These quick and easy Nigerian salmon recipes showcase how well it pairs with local flavors like pepper soup or suya spices.

Salmon is a very healthy and delicious fish that is growing in popularity across Nigeria. Locally, it is best known as eja osan or panla osan in the Yoruba language. Though fresh salmon can be hard to source, frozen and smoked options are becoming readily available. Supermarkets, open markets and online stores are the best places to buy salmon. This oily fish is great prepared in soups, rice dishes or grilled in traditional Nigerian recipes. With its incredible nutritional profile and versatility, salmon is a great fish to add more of into local diets.