14/08/2025
Miyan Zogale (Moringa Soup) – History, Origin, and Cultural Significance.
**1. What is Miyan Zogale?**
Miyan Zogale is a traditional **Hausa soup** made primarily from **moringa leaves** (called *zogale* in Hausa). It is one of the most nutritious soups in Northern Nigeria, combining moringa leaves with ground groundnuts (peanuts), locust beans (*daddawa*), sometimes fresh vegetables, and spices. It is often served with **tuwo shinkafa** (rice swallow), **tuwo masara** (maize swallow), or **tuwo dawa** (guinea corn swallow).
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**2. Origin and Which State “Owns” It**
While Miyan Zogale is eaten across Northern Nigeria, its **strongest roots are in Kano State**. Kano has long been a center for Hausa cuisine and agriculture, and moringa trees grow abundantly there. The dish spread throughout **Katsina, Jigawa, Zamfara, Sokoto, Bauchi, and Gombe**, but culturally, **Kano is often regarded as the “home” of Miyan Zogale** because of its deep ties to local farms and food markets.
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**3. Why Moringa Was Used**
Historically, moringa (*zogale*) was valued not only for flavor but also for its **medicinal and nutritional properties**. The Hausa people knew it was a “power leaf” long before modern science confirmed it:
* High in **vitamins A, C, and E**
* Contains iron, calcium, and antioxidants
* Boosts immunity and aids digestion
During times when meat or fish was scarce, Miyan Zogale served as an affordable but highly nutritious meal.
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**4. Cultural & Popular Stories Linked to It**
* **Wedding Food Tradition** – In some Hausa communities, Miyan Zogale is served at *kunshi* (bridal henna night) or small family wedding gatherings. It’s seen as a “strength-giving” meal for the bride and groom because of its moringa content.
* **Market Day Food** – In older times, women returning from *Kasuwar Kano* (Kano market) often cooked Miyan Zogale as a quick but filling family dinner. This tradition made it a “homecoming meal.”
* **The Farmer’s Pride** – There’s a local saying in Kano: *"Gidan da ba ya da zogale, ba gidan lafiya ba"* (A home without moringa is not a healthy home). It reflects the belief that moringa is essential for family well-being.
* **Dry Season Survivor** – In Hausa history, moringa leaves were a survival food during drought periods. The tree thrives in dry conditions, so people could always make Miyan Zogale even when other vegetables failed.
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**5. Symbolism in Hausa Culture**
* Represents **health and vitality**
* Associated with **humility and hospitality** (it’s often offered to visitors)
* Considered a **comfort food** for the Hausa people