The Easter period is a time dedicated to celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Apart from the public holiday attached to this period, Easter also comes with some traditions such as eating of frejon on every Good Friday.
This is a popular tradition in many Lagos homes and if you have ever wondered why this particular meal is eaten specifically on Good Friday, here is a little insight.
First off, what is Frejon? Frejon, derived from the Portuguese word feijão, meaning “beans” is a smooth pudding-like dish made from black beans, coconut milk, and sometimes sugar for a little extra sweetness.
Many Lagosians eat frejon with fish stew, peppered snail, or garri and it is actually the perfect delicacy on Good Friday!
ALSO READ: 100 beautiful Easter quotes to celebrate the holy season
Why Lagosians eat frejon on Good Friday
Eating frejon on Good Friday can be traced to history and religion. Many years ago, when freed Brazilian slaves of Yoruba descent, called the Agudas or “returnees” resettled in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, they brought with them parts of their culture, including religion and food. One of those foods includes Frejon.
Since these returnees were mostly Catholic, they observed Good Friday as a day of fasting and abstinence from meat. This is the tradition that teaches that on Good Friday, meat (especially red meat) should be avoided as a form of penance and remembrance of Christ’s crucifixion.
Frejon, which is made from beans and coconut milk, became the perfect filling, meat-free meal to break the fast. Today, many Lagosians who eat frejon on Good Friday see it as not just a meal, but a nostalgic nod to ancestry, community, and faith.
It is also a nice deviation from the usual jollof rice eaten during celebrations like these. So, next time you see a Lagosian eating Frejon on a Good Friday, don’t be surprised, it’s not just food. It’s tradition, history, and a nod to religion.
