Okra and Shrimp Soup

Okra and Shrimp Soup Recipe from Mozambique

Region / culture: Mozambique | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Okra and Shrimp Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp with the unique texture of okra. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a taste of the South.

History

This recipe has its roots in Southern cuisine, where okra is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of shrimp and okra creates a flavorful and satisfying soup that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of peeled and cleaned shrimp
1 large minced onion
1 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of red pepper flakes
1 lb (454 g) of okra, with ends cut off and sliced 0.5 inch thick
0.5 lb (227 g) of fresh tomatillos, peeled, seeded, and sliced
0.5 cup of palm oil

How to prepare

In a pot, add 4 cups of boiling water along with the shrimp, onion, salt, and red pepper flakes.
Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 minutes until the shrimp are cooked.
Next, add the okra, tomatillos, and palm oil to the pot.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Use chicken or sausage instead of shrimp for a different twist.
Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming tough.

- To reduce the sliminess of okra, you can soak it in vinegar or lemon juice before cooking.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Okra and Shrimp Soup hot with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen okra if fresh is not available.

- Substitute olive oil for palm oil if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Okra is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and magnesium. Shrimp is rich in vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies.

Summary

This recipe is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, but it is also high in fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Okra and Shrimp Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy this delicious soup in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Okra and Shrimp Soup. It was a hot summer day and I had just finished helping my mother in the garden. We had harvested a bounty of fresh okra and shrimp from the nearby market, and I was eager to try out a new recipe that would showcase these delicious ingredients.

As I carefully read through the recipe, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of my grandmother, who was an amazing cook and always had a knack for creating delicious dishes from simple ingredients. She had passed down many recipes to my mother and me over the years, and I knew that this one would be no exception.

The recipe called for a few simple ingredients - okra, shrimp, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a few spices. It seemed easy enough to follow, but I knew that the key to a great dish was in the technique and the love put into it. I decided to take my time and really savor the process of creating this soup.

I started by washing and slicing the okra, taking care to remove the tough ends and any blemishes. I then peeled and deveined the shrimp, saving the shells to make a flavorful broth later on. I chopped the onions and garlic, and diced the tomatoes, getting everything ready before I started cooking.

I heated a large pot on the stove and added some olive oil, allowing it to shimmer before I added the onions and garlic. The fragrant aroma filled the kitchen, and I knew that I was on the right track. I let the onions and garlic soften and become translucent before adding the okra and tomatoes, stirring everything together to coat in the flavorful oil.

Next, I added the shrimp shells to the pot, along with some water and a few bay leaves. I let everything simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory broth. I then strained out the shrimp shells, leaving behind a delicious base for my soup.

I added the shrimp to the pot, letting them cook until they turned pink and curled up. The okra had softened slightly, but still retained a bit of crunch, adding a lovely texture to the soup. I seasoned the dish with some salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.

As I stirred the pot, the aroma of the soup filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish and see if it lived up to my expectations.

When the soup was ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with some fresh parsley from the garden. I took a spoonful and blew on it gently before taking a taste. The flavors exploded on my tongue - the sweetness of the shrimp, the earthiness of the okra, and the tang of the tomatoes all combined to create a truly unforgettable dish.

I closed my eyes and savored each bite, feeling a sense of satisfaction wash over me. This recipe was a true gem, and I knew that it would become a favorite in my repertoire for years to come.

As I finished my bowl of Okra and Shrimp Soup, I couldn't help but smile at the memory of my grandmother. I knew that she would be proud of me for creating such a delicious dish, and I felt grateful for the knowledge and love that she had passed down to me over the years.

Cooking had always been a way for me to connect with my family and my heritage, and this recipe was a perfect example of that. I knew that I would continue to cherish and share this dish with others, passing on the tradition to future generations.

In the end, it wasn't just about the recipe itself, but the memories and love that went into creating it. And for that, I would always be grateful.