Akanwu, also known as potash, is a traditional African ingredient used in cooking and various cultural practices. It is a powdery substance derived from the ashes of burnt palm fronds or cocoa pods. Akanwu is typically white or off-white in color and has a slightly alkaline taste. In African cuisine, it is used as a leavening agent, tenderizer, and flavor enhancer in dishes like soups, stews, and porridges. Additionally, it plays a significant role in certain cultural rituals and ceremonies across different African communities.
