What Are Tiger Nuts (Ofio)? Uses, Benefits and How to Eat Them
8th Jun 2026
What Are Tiger Nuts (Ofio)? Uses, Benefits and How to Eat Them
Tiger Nuts, known as Ofio in Nigeria, are a popular traditional snack enjoyed across West Africa and many other parts of the world. Despite their name, Tiger Nuts are not actually nuts. They are small edible tubers that grow underground and are valued for their naturally sweet flavour and unique chewy texture.
For generations, Tiger Nuts have been enjoyed as a convenient snack and have remained a familiar part of many African diets.
What Are Tiger Nuts?
Tiger Nuts are the edible tubers of a plant called Cyperus esculentus. They are small, naturally sweet, and have a slightly nutty flavour, which is how they got their name.
Although commonly called "nuts," Tiger Nuts are root vegetables rather than tree nuts.
They are widely consumed across:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Cameroon
- Other West African countries
- Parts of Europe and the Mediterranean
Today, Tiger Nuts continue to be enjoyed by people looking for traditional African snacks and ingredients.
What Is Ofio?
Ofio is the Nigerian name for Tiger Nuts.
Many customers searching online in the UK may use either term:
- Tiger Nuts
- Ofio
- Ofio nuts
They all refer to the same product.
Because Ofio is a well-known name among Nigerian communities, including both names helps shoppers find the product more easily.
What Do Tiger Nuts Taste Like?
Tiger Nuts have a naturally sweet taste with a slightly nutty flavour and a chewy texture.
Many people enjoy them as a simple snack straight from the pack, while others prefer to soak them in water before eating to soften them.
Their distinctive flavour makes them popular among both adults and children.
How Do You Eat Tiger Nuts?
Tiger Nuts can be enjoyed in several ways:
1. As a Snack
The most common way is to eat them straight from the pack.
2. Soaked in Water
Some people soak Tiger Nuts before eating to make them softer and easier to chew.
3. In Traditional Drinks
Tiger Nuts are sometimes used in homemade beverages and traditional recipes.
4. In Cooking
They can also be incorporated into various recipes depending on personal preference and regional traditions.
Why Are Tiger Nuts Popular in West Africa?
Tiger Nuts have been enjoyed across West Africa for generations because they are:
- Convenient to carry
- Easy to eat
- Naturally sweet
- Suitable as a snack
- Familiar in many traditional households
They are often sold in markets and grocery stores throughout Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Buying Tiger Nuts in the UK
Finding authentic Tiger Nuts in the UK can sometimes be difficult outside specialist African grocery stores.
At Crown Food Store, we supply quality Tiger Nuts (Ofio) to customers across the UK, making it easier to enjoy traditional African snacks without travelling to specialist markets.
Whether you know them as Tiger Nuts or Ofio, you can order online and have them delivered directly to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tiger Nuts actually nuts?
No. Tiger Nuts are edible tubers and are not tree nuts.
What is Ofio?
Ofio is the Nigerian name for Tiger Nuts.
Can Tiger Nuts be eaten raw?
Yes. Many people eat Tiger Nuts directly as a snack.
Why do people soak Tiger Nuts?
Some people soak Tiger Nuts before eating to soften their texture.
Where can I buy Tiger Nuts in the UK?
Tiger Nuts are available from specialist African grocery stores such as Crown Food Store.
Shop Tiger Nuts Online
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Explore our Tiger Nuts collection and enjoy a traditional African snack delivered anywhere in the UK.