Iyan, commonly known as Pounded Yam, is a traditional West African dish renowned for its smooth, stretchy, and dough-like consistency. It is primarily made from yams, a type of starchy tuber. The preparation involves peeling and boiling the yams until they are soft, and then pounding them using a mortar and pestle until they achieve a seamless, elastic texture. In modern kitchens, electric yam pounders or food processors are often used to simplify this process. Iyan is typically served with a variety of rich and flavorful soups and stews, such as Egusi, Ogbono, and Okra soup. It holds significant cultural value, frequently appearing in ceremonies and family gatherings, symbolizing unity and tradition in West African cuisine.