Iru (Fermented Locust Beans)

Iru (fermented locust beans) has been used for centuries across West Africa for its delicious and healthful properties. Rich in protein and natural fats, it imparts a deep umami flavor to savory or sweet dishes. It's the fermented bean of the Nigerian Locust Tree and it has an incredible, complex flavor, somewhere in between chocolate, miso, and cheese. Today, it's at risk of disappearing from kitchens, and we want to make sure you get to know this beautiful spice, which is perfect for umami-rich stews, sauces and bean dishes. Despite its wide applications across West African cuisine, it's still surprisingly difficult to find in the US, especially in dry bean form.

Who Made It: Burlap & Barrel partner directly with smallholder farmers to source spices that have never been available to the US before and help improve the livelihoods of their partner farmers. Their spices come from farms from the most passionate & knowledgeable spice farmers (and foragers) in the world. 

Size: 0.44oz

Grown in Nigeria