Egusi Soup Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Egusi Soup with Assorted Meats and Leafy Greens

Egusi Soup Recipe: How to Make Authentic Nigerian Egusi Soup with Assorted Meats and Leafy Greens

Introduction

Egusi Soup is one of Nigeria’s most beloved traditional dishes, known for its rich, nutty flavor and hearty texture. Made with ground melon seeds (Egusi), a mix of leafy greens, and an assortment of meats and fish, this soup offers a burst of flavors and nutrients. It is widely enjoyed across various Nigerian cultures, with each region adding its unique twist. Typically served with pounded yam, fufu, or eba, Egusi Soup is a staple in Nigerian homes and at special occasions, offering comfort and a taste of tradition in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 cups ground Egusi (melon seeds)
• 500g assorted meats (beef, goat meat, tripe, and cow skin)
• 200g stockfish (pre-soaked)
• 200g dried fish
• 1 cup crayfish, ground
• 2 tablespoons ground pepper (scotch bonnet or cayenne)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 200ml palm oil
• 2-3 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• Salt to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 2 cups chopped spinach or pumpkin leaves (Ugu)
• 1 cup bitterleaf (optional, and well-washed to reduce bitterness)
• 1 cup waterleaf (or substitute with more spinach)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Season and Boil the Meat: Wash the assorted meats and season with chopped onions, stock cubes, and salt. Add enough water to cover the meat and boil until tender.
2. Add Stockfish and Dried Fish: Introduce the soaked stockfish and dried fish into the pot and continue cooking until soft.

Step 2: Prepare the Egusi Paste

1. Mix Egusi with Water: In a bowl, combine the ground Egusi with a small amount of water to form a thick paste.
2. Fry the Egusi: Heat palm oil in a pot, add chopped onions, and then spoon the Egusi paste into the oil. Fry for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the Egusi becomes slightly crumbly.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Combine Meats and Egusi: Pour the cooked meat and stock into the Egusi mixture. Stir well to combine.
2. Add Crayfish and Pepper: Mix in the ground crayfish and pepper. Allow it to cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped spinach, bitterleaf, and waterleaf. Mix well and let the soup cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

1. Check the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust with salt or additional stock cubes if needed.
2. Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat until the oil begins to float to the top, indicating that the flavors are well combined.

Serving Suggestion

Egusi Soup pairs perfectly with traditional Nigerian swallows, such as:

• Pounded Yam
• Eba (Garri)
• Fufu (Cassava)
• Semovita
• Wheatmeal

Serve hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this classic Nigerian dish!