Okra Soup I
Okra Soup I Recipe from Zambia with Chicken Stock and Spices
Introduction
Okra soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is popular in many cultures around the world. This recipe is a simple and easy way to make a flavorful and satisfying soup using fresh okra and a few other ingredients.
History
Okra soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various parts of the world, including Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. It is often made with a combination of okra, spices, and broth, creating a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- First, melt the margarine in a saucepan. Then add the okra, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and stock.
- Cover the saucepan and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 – 20 minutes.
- Allow the soup to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender.
- Blend the soup until smooth, adjusting the seasoning and consistency as needed. You can add more water, stock, or milk if desired.
- Return the soup to the saucepan and serve it hot.
Variations
- Add diced tomatoes, onions, and garlic for a more flavorful soup.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to finely chop the okra to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the soup.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- For a thicker soup, you can blend the okra for a longer period of time or add a thickening agent such as cornstarch or flour.
- Serve the soup hot with a side of rice or bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this okra soup hot with a side of rice or bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to finely chop the okra to ensure a smooth texture in the soup.
- Blend the soup until smooth for a creamy consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use butter or oil instead of margarine in this recipe.
- Use any type of broth or stock you prefer for this soup.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve this okra soup with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Each serving of this soup contains approximately 100 calories.
Carbohydrates
- Okra is a low-carb vegetable, making this soup a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
- Each serving of this soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
- This soup is made with margarine, which adds a small amount of fat to the dish.
- Each serving of this soup contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
- The chicken stock in this soup provides a good source of protein.
- Each serving of this soup contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Okra is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium and potassium.
- Each serving of this soup provides a good amount of these essential vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (margarine), which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Summary
This okra soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Summary
This okra soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of fresh okra, spices, and broth in this comforting and satisfying soup.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit my friend Mary who lived in a small village on the outskirts of town. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of simmering spices and herbs filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.
Mary greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and then she handed me a bowl of steaming hot Okra Soup. I had never tried Okra Soup before, but as soon as I took my first spoonful, I was hooked. The flavors were rich and complex, with a hint of spice and a touch of sweetness. I knew I had to learn how to make this incredible dish.
Mary laughed at my enthusiasm and invited me to watch as she prepared the soup. She explained that the key to a good Okra Soup was in the ingredients – fresh okra, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a special blend of spices that she had learned from her grandmother. As she chopped and stirred, I watched in awe, taking mental notes on every step.
After the soup had simmered for a while, Mary ladled it into bowls and we sat down to enjoy our meal. As we savored each spoonful, Mary told me the story of how she had learned to make Okra Soup from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.
Her grandmother, a wise and kind woman, had taught Mary the importance of using fresh ingredients and cooking with love. She had shown her how to balance the flavors and create a dish that was not only delicious, but also nourishing for the body and soul.
I listened intently, soaking up every word and reveling in the warmth of Mary's kitchen. I knew that I had found something special in this recipe, something that connected me to a long line of women who had cooked with passion and skill.
As the years passed, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it my own. I sourced the freshest okra from the local market, used ripe tomatoes from my garden, and ground my own spices to create a blend that was uniquely mine.
Each time I made Okra Soup, I felt a sense of pride and connection to my roots. I could almost hear the voices of my ancestors whispering in my ear, guiding me as I stirred the pot and adjusted the seasonings.
Over time, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. They marveled at the depth of flavor and the complexity of the spices, and they begged me to teach them how to make it themselves.
And so, I became the keeper of the Okra Soup recipe, passing it down to the next generation and ensuring that its legacy would live on. I taught my children and grandchildren how to make the soup, patiently guiding them through each step and instilling in them a love for cooking and a respect for tradition.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, stirring a pot of Okra Soup and watching the steam rise, I feel a sense of peace and contentment. I know that this recipe will endure, just as it has for generations, and that it will continue to bring joy and nourishment to all who taste it.
The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. And now, as I pass it on to my loved ones, I know that it will captivate them too – filling their hearts and bellies with warmth and love for years to come.