/ˈbɔː.li/
Pronunciation Guide: Thus, it is pronounced as “Baw-lee” (BOL-LEE).
Definition:
BOLI is a popular Nigerian street snack made from roasted plantains. It is a beloved delicacy enjoyed across Nigeria, often served with groundnuts (peanuts) or spicy pepper sauce. The dish is known for its simplicity, natural sweetness, and versatility, making it a staple in Nigerian street food culture.
- BOLI refers to roasted plantains, a popular Nigerian street snack.
- Synonyms: Roasted plantains, Bole (alternative spelling), grilled plantain, street plantain.
- Antonyms: Dodo (fried plantains), boiled plantain, unripe plantain chips, pounded plantain.
Hear how native speakers pronounce “BOLI” in the video below.
Usage Examples:
- Formal: “BOLI is a popular Nigerian delicacy made by roasting ripe or unripe plantains over an open flame, often served with groundnuts or pepper sauce.” (Explanation: Used in formal or professional settings to describe the dish.)
- Informal: “Omo, this BOLI and groundnut sweet die!” Translation: “Wow, this roasted plantain and peanuts taste so good!” (Explanation: A casual way to express enjoyment of the snack.)
- Idiomatic: “Life no be BOLI wey you go just turn anyhow!” Translation: “Life isn’t as simple as roasted plantain that you can just flip any way you want.” (Explanation: Used figuratively to emphasize that life is not easy.)
Cultural Context:
- Origin: The word BOLI (sometimes spelled “BOLE”) originates from traditional West African cooking methods, where plantains have long been a staple food. The dish gained popularity in Nigeria due to the abundance of plantains and the preference for roasted foods, which enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the fruit. BOLI is commonly sold by street vendors and is a favorite snack or meal for many Nigerians.
- Regional Usage:
- Southern Nigeria (Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River): BOLI is often served with peppered palm oil sauce and grilled fish, making it a full meal. Example: “PH BOLI na the best; e dey sweet well well with fish.” (Translation: “Port Harcourt BOLI is the best; it tastes amazing with fish.”)
- Western Nigeria (Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara): BOLI is commonly paired with groundnuts and eaten as a quick snack. Example: “I go buy BOLI and groundnut for road.” (Translation: “I’ll buy roasted plantain and peanuts on the way.”)
- Eastern Nigeria (Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia): BOLI is enjoyed with groundnuts or spicy pepper sauce. Example: “BOLI and pepper soup na perfect combo.” (Translation: “Roasted plantain and pepper soup are a perfect combination.”)
- Northern Nigeria (Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Jos, Maiduguri, Abuja): While less common, BOLI is still enjoyed, often paired with spicy sauces. Example: “BOLI dey sell for roadside grills for North.” (Translation: “Roasted plantain is sold at roadside grills in the North.”)
We want to hear from you! Share how you use BOLI in your daily life or discuss its unique preparation and consumption in your region. Your contributions could be featured in future updates to this glossary. Join the conversation and help us celebrate the richness of Nigerian street food culture!
- Submit Your Own Sentences: Write a sentence using “BOLI” and share it in the comments below!
- Example: “I no fit resist BOLI and groundnut; e too sweet!”
- Discuss the Word: Have you heard “BOLI” used differently in your region or culture? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments!
- Example: “In my area, we add coconut to the roasted plantain for extra flavor.”
By understanding and using BOLI, you connect with the vibrant street food culture of Nigeria. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a full meal, BOLI is a delicious and meaningful dish that brings people together.