Okra Soup

Nigerian Okra Soup Recipe with Beef and Crayfish

Region / culture: Nigeria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Okra soup is a traditional African dish that is popular in many countries across the continent. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with okra, beef, and a variety of spices and seasonings. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you are craving a warm and delicious meal.

History

Okra soup has been a staple in African cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in West Africa and has since spread to other parts of the continent. The dish is often served at special occasions and celebrations, as well as for everyday meals. Okra soup is known for its rich and complex flavors, as well as its nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) beef
1 cup dried crayfish (or dried shrimp, optional)
2 lb (907 g) okra, chopped or ground in a blender
1 tsp dried red pepper, powdered or crushed (optional, or chopped or ground red bell pepper)
2 tbsp salt
1 medium onion, chopped
4 tbsp red palm oil
spinach, chopped
7 cup water

How to prepare

Cut the beef into small pieces.
Place the beef in a skillet with water.
Add onion and salt to the skillet.
Boil the mixture for 15 to 25 minutes.
Add okra to the skillet and stir until it is blended in.
Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet, stir well, and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve the dish warm.

Variations

You can add other vegetables such as tomatoes, carrots, or eggplant to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the beef and dried shrimp and use vegetable broth instead.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To prevent the okra from becoming slimy, be sure to cook it quickly over high heat.

- For a richer flavor, you can add dried shrimp to the soup.

- Be sure to season the soup well with salt and spices to enhance the flavors of the ingredients.

- You can adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less water, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Okra soup is traditionally served with a side of fufu, a starchy dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams. It can also be enjoyed with rice or bread.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the beef until it is tender and fully cooked before adding the okra and other ingredients.

- Stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find red palm oil, you can use vegetable oil or olive oil as a substitute.

- You can use fresh or frozen okra in place of dried okra.

Make Ahead Tips

Okra soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. - Serve the soup in individual bowls with a side of fufu or rice for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Okra soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a light and healthy meal.

- For a heartier meal, serve the soup with a side of grilled chicken or fish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 350 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Okra: 7g per serving

- Onion: 10g per serving

- Red bell pepper: 6g per serving

- Spinach: 3g per serving

Fats

- Red palm oil: 14g per serving

Proteins

- Beef: 25g per serving

- Dried shrimp: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Okra: Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, Magnesium

- Spinach: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Iron

- Red bell pepper: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6

Alergens

Shellfish (dried shrimp)

Summary

Okra soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of essential nutrients and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Okra soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional African dish with your family and friends for a satisfying and comforting meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary in her cozy little kitchen. Mary was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As we chatted and caught up on each other's lives, Mary suddenly pulled out a worn, stained recipe card from her recipe box. "Have you ever tried Okra Soup, dear?" she asked with a twinkle in her eye. I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar name. Mary explained that it was a traditional dish from her hometown in the South, and she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother.

Eager to learn something new, I watched intently as Mary gathered the ingredients and began to cook. The kitchen filled with the savory aroma of onions, garlic, and spices as Mary worked her magic. She explained each step to me in detail, and I listened attentively, taking mental notes of the process.

After a few hours of simmering and stirring, the Okra Soup was finally ready. Mary ladled steaming bowls of the rich, flavorful broth, and we sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. The first spoonful melted in my mouth, filling me with warmth and comfort. The taste was unlike anything I had ever experienced before, a perfect blend of spices and textures that danced on my taste buds.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this incredible dish myself. Mary graciously shared her recipe with me, and I vowed to practice and perfect it in my own kitchen. Over the years, I have made Okra Soup countless times, each batch a little different as I added my own flair and creativity to the recipe.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of Okra Soup to the next generation. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny day in Mary's kitchen, surrounded by laughter and love. The memories of learning this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I look back on that day, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories and connections that transcend time and space. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express love and creativity through the simple act of preparing a delicious meal.

I am grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years, each one a treasure trove of memories and experiences. But the recipe for Okra Soup will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I learned something new and delicious from a dear friend.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and explore the world of flavors and tastes. You never know what magical dish you might discover, or what cherished memories you might create along the way. Happy cooking!