Ogbono Soup Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Draw Soup with Wild Mango Seeds and Vegetables

Ogbono Soup Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Draw Soup with Wild Mango Seeds and Vegetables

Introduction

Ogbono Soup, also known as Draw Soup, is a beloved traditional Nigerian dish known for its thick, slimy texture and rich flavors. Made with ground wild mango seeds (Ogbono), this soup is often combined with a variety of vegetables, assorted meats, and sometimes fish. The draw effect of Ogbono Soup makes it a perfect match for Nigerian swallows such as pounded yam, fufu, or eba, offering a unique and delicious dining experience. Ogbono Soup is not only hearty but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for the entire family.

Ingredients

For the Ogbono Soup:

• 2 cups ground Ogbono seeds (wild mango seeds)
• 1 kg assorted meats (beef, goat meat, tripe, and cow skin)
• 200g stockfish (pre-soaked)
• 200g dried fish
• 200ml palm oil
• 1 cup ground crayfish
• 2 tablespoons ground pepper (scotch bonnet or cayenne)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups fresh vegetables (spinach, pumpkin leaves (Ugu), or bitterleaf)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup periwinkles (for added flavor)
• Fresh okra (sliced, for extra draw)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Season and Cook Meats: Wash the assorted meats and season with chopped onions, stock cubes, and salt. Add water and boil until tender.
2. Add Stockfish and Dried Fish: Add the pre-soaked stockfish and dried fish to the meat pot. Cook until soft.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Ogbono Soup Base

1. Heat Palm Oil: In a large pot, heat the palm oil until it melts (avoid overheating). Add the ground Ogbono and stir continuously until it is well incorporated with the oil.
2. Add Meat Stock: Gradually add the stock from the cooked meat while stirring. This will help the Ogbono achieve its draw consistency.
3. Add Crayfish and Pepper: Mix in the ground crayfish and pepper. Let the soup cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Cook Soup

1. Add Cooked Meats and Fish: Add the assorted meats, stockfish, and dried fish into the soup. Stir gently to combine.
2. Introduce Vegetables: Add the fresh vegetables and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Enhance Draw with Okra (Optional): If using okra, add it now to enhance the draw effect of the soup.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serving

1. Check the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust with salt or more stock cubes if needed.
2. Simmer on Low Heat: Let the soup cook on low heat until the flavors are well combined, and the oil floats to the top.
3. Serve Hot: Ogbono Soup is now ready to be served with pounded yam, eba, fufu, or rice.

Serving Suggestions

Ogbono Soup pairs perfectly with traditional Nigerian swallows and staples, such as:

• Pounded Yam
• Eba (Garri)
• Fufu (Cassava)
• Semovita
• Wheatmeal
• Rice (for a lighter meal)

Enjoy this savory and nutritious Nigerian soup, perfect for family gatherings and everyday enjoyment!