★★★★★
Superb depth of flavor
The Iru from Burlap & Barrel is genuinely superb. It brings an amazing depth and complexity to dishes, really enhancing the umami profile. I've found it excellent in jollof rice and various bean preparations.
Burlap & Barrel
Iru (Fermented Locust Beans)
$9.99
● In stock
Size
2.4 oz glass jar
- Adds deep umami to savory and sweet dishes
- Traditional West African condiment
- Rich in protein and healthy fats
Free US shipping on orders over $75.00; otherwise $5.99 · 30-day returns · Sold by Cartivo (demo store — payments are simulated)
About this item
Iru, or fermented locust bean, is a popular condiment in West African cooking. Rich in protein and fats, it imparts a deep umami flavor to savory and sweet dishes. The complex flavor is somewhere in between chocolate, miso, and cheese. This ingredient goes by a variety of names depending on the region, but the Yoruba people of Nigeria call it Iru, and it has been used for centuries across West Africa for its delicious and healthful properties. 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.
Specifications
| Form | Fermented whole beans |
|---|---|
| Origin | West Africa (Nigeria) |
| Best For | Umami-rich stews, sauces, bean dishes, savory and sweet dishes |
| Size Options | 2.4 oz glass jar |
| Flavor Profile | Deep umami, complex, notes of chocolate, miso, cheese |
Customer reviews
What customers say: This product delivers an authentic, deep umami flavor that transforms stews and sauces; however, some find the whole beans challenging to incorporate.
★★★★☆
Good quality, strong flavor
The quality of these fermented locust beans is excellent, and the flavor is definitely strong and complex. It's fantastic in bean dishes. The only thing is I wish the jar was a bit larger for the amount I use, but the product itself is great.
★★★★★
Authentic taste
This iru is exactly what I was looking for to enhance my West African stews. The deep, rich umami flavor really came through and made a huge difference. I appreciate having this available in such a convenient jar.
★★★☆☆
Good, but hard to use for me
The taste is certainly authentic and good, delivering on the umami promise. However, I found the whole bean form a little difficult to work with for blending into some of my sauces. It just took extra effort that I wasn't expecting.
★★★★★
Fantastic for stews
This ingredient absolutely transformed my egusi stew.