Ogbono Soup
Ogbono Soup Recipe from Nigeria with Oxtail and Prawns
Introduction
Ogbono soup is a traditional Nigerian dish that is known for its unique flavor and thick, viscous texture. This soup is made with ground ogbono seeds, which are also known as African mango seeds. Ogbono soup is often served with fufu or rice and is a popular dish in many Nigerian households.
History
Ogbono soup has been a staple in Nigerian cuisine for centuries. The soup is believed to have originated from the Igbo tribe in Nigeria, where it is still a popular dish today. Ogbono seeds are harvested from the African mango tree and ground into a powder to make the soup. The soup is traditionally made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and is known for its rich and hearty flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of meat (beef, lamb, or goat) or chicken
- cayenne pepper or red pepper
- 1 cup of palm oil or any cooking oil
- 2 or 3 tomatoes, peeled (if desired) and chopped
- 1 chile pepper, cleaned and chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 0.5 cup of ogbono, crushed
- 2 maggi® cubes dissolved in water, or a spoonful
- 1 dozen okra pods, ends removed, whole or chopped
- 1 piece of dried, salted, or smoked fish
- A large bunch of spinach leaves
- salt
How to prepare
- Rub the meat with cayenne pepper and let it marinate for about an hour.
- In a large pot, bring a few cups of water to a boil. Add the meat and cook for several minutes. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer.
- In a skillet, heat most of the oil and fry the tomato, chili pepper, and onion until they are tender.
- Add the fried vegetables and Maggi® cube water to the meat. Cover and continue to simmer on low heat.
- Heat the remaining oil in the skillet, stir in the ogbono, and fry it for a few minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste.
- Add the ogbono paste to the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir to avoid forming lumps.
- Add the okra and dried fish, shrimp, or prawns (if desired). Cover and cook for a few more minutes. Add water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Add spinach leaves or other greens. Adjust the seasoning. Cover and cook until everything is tender.
Variations
- You can add different vegetables such as spinach, kale, or okra to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
- You can also add different spices and seasonings such as curry powder, thyme, or bay leaves for a unique flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To prevent lumps from forming when adding the ogbono paste to the soup, be sure to stir constantly.
- Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if needed.
- For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of different meats such as chicken, beef, or fish.
- Ogbono soup is best served hot and fresh, so try to make it just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Ogbono soup is traditionally served with fufu, rice, or pounded yam. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to marinate the meat with cayenne pepper for added flavor.
- Fry the vegetables until they are tender to enhance their flavor.
- Stir constantly when adding the ogbono paste to prevent lumps from forming.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use different types of meat such as beef, fish, or shrimp in place of chicken.
- If you can't find ogbono seeds, you can use ground egusi seeds as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
Ogbono soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the ogbono soup in a bowl and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Ogbono soup pairs well with a side of fufu, rice, or plantains. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover ogbono soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Ogbono soup contains approximately 350 calories per serving.
Carbohydrates
Ogbono soup is a low-carb dish, with approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Fats
Ogbono soup is a high-fat dish, with approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.
Proteins
Ogbono soup is a good source of protein, with approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
Ogbono soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
Ogbono soup may contain allergens such as fish and shellfish.
Summary
Ogbono soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Summary
Ogbono soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal. With its rich flavor and thick texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Ogbono Soup. It was handed down to me by a dear friend who had learned it from her grandmother, who in turn had learned it from her own mother. The history and tradition behind this recipe was truly fascinating to me.
I had always been a lover of cooking, and over the years I had collected recipes from various places and people. But there was something special about this particular recipe that captivated me. The ingredients were simple yet exotic, and the process of making the soup seemed almost magical.
The key ingredient in Ogbono Soup is the ground ogbono seeds, which give the soup its unique flavor and texture. These seeds are native to West Africa and are known for their thickening properties. They are mixed with palm oil, stock, and a variety of vegetables and meats to create a rich and hearty soup that is both comforting and nourishing.
As I read through the recipe, I could almost smell the aroma of the soup wafting through my kitchen. I could imagine the warmth and comfort it would bring to those who gathered around my table to enjoy it. I knew that I had to learn how to make this soup, and so I set out on a journey to master the art of Ogbono Soup.
I reached out to my friend and asked her to teach me how to make the soup. She was delighted to share her family recipe with me, and we spent an entire afternoon in the kitchen together, chopping vegetables, grinding seeds, and simmering stock. As we worked, she told me stories of her childhood in Nigeria, where Ogbono Soup was a staple in her family's kitchen.
I listened intently, absorbing every detail of the recipe and the traditions that surrounded it. I could feel the love and care that went into making this soup, and I knew that I wanted to carry on that tradition in my own home.
After several hours of cooking and stirring, the soup was finally ready. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with fresh herbs and a drizzle of palm oil. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor.
As I took my first spoonful of Ogbono Soup, I was transported to a place of warmth and comfort. The flavors were rich and complex, the texture was thick and velvety, and the memories of generations past seemed to swirl around me in the steam rising from the bowl.
I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that would be passed down through my own family for generations to come. Ogbono Soup had captured my heart and my taste buds, and I was grateful to have learned the art of making it from such a dear friend.
Since that day, Ogbono Soup has become a regular feature on my table, a dish that brings comfort and joy to all who taste it. I have shared the recipe with many friends and family members, and each time I make it, I feel a deep connection to the traditions and stories that surround this beloved dish.
I am grateful for the opportunity to learn how to make Ogbono Soup, and I will always cherish the memories of that day in the kitchen with my friend. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it is about connecting with the past, honoring traditions, and creating new memories to be treasured for years to come. And for me, Ogbono Soup will always hold a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.