Egusi Soup – Ground Melon Seed Soup

Introduction

Egusi Soup is a popular West African dish, particularly enjoyed in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. Made from ground melon seeds, this hearty soup is rich in flavor, protein, and essential nutrients. It is commonly paired with swallows like pounded yam, fufu, eba, or semovita.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

✔ 2 cups egusi (ground melon seeds)
✔ 500g assorted meats (beef, goat meat, tripe, or cow skin)
✔ 2 cups stock or smoked fish (optional)
✔ 1 cup palm oil
✔ 1 medium onion (chopped)
✔ 2-3 tablespoons ground crayfish
✔ 1 teaspoon ground pepper (cayenne or chili powder)
✔ 2-3 cups water or meat stock
✔ Salt and seasoning cubes to taste

For the Vegetables

✔ 2 cups chopped spinach, ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), or bitter leaf
✔ 1/2 cup chopped scent leaves or basil (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Meat & Stock

1. Wash the assorted meats and place them in a pot.
2. Add chopped onions, salt, and seasoning cubes.
3. Add water and cook until the meat is tender.
4. Reserve the meat stock (broth) for the soup.

2️⃣ Prepare the Egusi Paste

1. In a bowl, mix the ground egusi seeds with a little water to form a thick paste.
2. Alternatively, fry the dry ground egusi in palm oil for a crumbly texture.

3️⃣ Cook the Soup

1. Heat palm oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the egusi paste and fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Pour in meat stock gradually and let it cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add the cooked meat, fish, crayfish, and ground pepper.
6. Stir and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.

4️⃣ Add the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped greens (spinach, ugu, or bitter leaf) and stir well.
2. Allow to cook for 5 more minutes.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

• Egusi soup is best enjoyed with swallows like pounded yam, eba, fufu, or semovita.
• Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Nigerian delicacy! 😋

Tips for the Best Egusi Soup

✔ For a richer flavor, toast the egusi seeds before grinding.
✔ Add locust beans (iru) for an authentic Yoruba-style taste.
✔ Use bitter leaf for a slightly bitter, traditional flavor.
✔ To make it thicker, reduce the broth or cook for a longer time.

📖 Popular Variations:

• Egusi with Tomatoes – Adding blended tomatoes for a tangy taste.
• Egusi with Uziza Leaves – Adds a spicy, peppery flavor.
• Lumpy Egusi Soup – Cooking the egusi paste in balls without breaking it up.

Conclusion

Egusi Soup is a delicious, nutritious, and culturally significant dish enjoyed across West Africa. Whether served with pounded yam, fufu, or eba, it remains a comforting favorite. Try this authentic recipe and enjoy a taste of West African cuisine at home! 🌍✨