Hello again, food enthusiasts!
We’re back in the kitchen at MandyNews.com, and today’s menu features an all-time Nigerian favorite: Okra Soup. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a hearty, healthy, and absolutely delicious part of Nigerian culinary tradition. So, let’s get started on this simple yet satisfying recipe!
What You’ll Need:
- Okra: Fresh and green, the star of the show!
- Meat or Fish: Chicken, beef, or shrimp work great.
- Palm Oil: For that authentic Nigerian flavor.
- Spices: Think maggi cubes, salt, pepper, and anything else you love.
- Veggies: Onions, peppers, whatever floats your boat.
- A Big Pot and A Sharp Knife.
Yields: Serves 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Cal/Serv: Approximately 300 (varies based on ingredients used)
Ingredients:
- Fresh okra pods (500g)
- Palm oil (1/2 cup)
- Boneless chicken or fish (500g)
- Ground crayfish (2 tablespoons)
- Red bell peppers (2, blended)
- Scotch bonnet peppers (1-2, depending on your heat preference)
- Beef or chicken stock (4 cups)
- Sliced Ugu leaves or spinach (2 cups)
- Sliced onions (1 medium)
- Seasoning cubes (2)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Dried shrimp or smoked fish for added flavor
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Prep Your Okra: Start by washing the okra pods under cold water. Then, using your sharp knife, slice them thinly. This will help them cook evenly and give your soup that signature texture.
- Blend the Peppers: Grab your red bell peppers and scotch bonnet peppers. Blend them until smooth. This mix will give your soup a lovely color and a bit of a kick.
- Cook Your Choice of Protein: In your large pot, cook the chicken, beef, or fish with seasoning cubes and a pinch of salt. You want your protein to be tender and flavorful.
- Stir in the Palm Oil: Once your meat or fish is cooked, add the palm oil to the pot. Let it heat up a bit – this is key for releasing the flavors.
- Add the Pepper Mix: Now, pour in your blended peppers. Let this cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll start to smell those amazing aromas filling your kitchen.
- Pour in the Stock: Next, add the beef or chicken stock. Bring your soup to a gentle simmer. This is where all the flavors start to come together.
- Time for Okra: Add your sliced okra to the pot. Let it cook for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a tender but not mushy texture.
- The Final Touches: Lastly, add the sliced Ugu leaves or spinach and the ground crayfish. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve It Up: Your Nigerian Okra Soup is ready! Serve it hot with Fufu, Pounded Yam, or Rice. It’s a comforting, filling, and utterly delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Nutritional Info:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 15g
And there you have it! A simple, step-by-step guide to making delicious Nigerian Okra Soup. This dish is a fantastic way to bring a taste of Nigerian culture into your home. It’s healthy, flavorful, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Keep an eye on MandyNews.com for more recipes, tips, and culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
Stay tuned to MandyNews.com for more easy, delicious recipes and fun cooking tips. We’ve got everything you need to keep your meals exciting and your kitchen buzzing! Happy cooking!
