Pepper Soup Gambia

Pepper Soup Gambia Recipe - Authentic African Cuisine

Region / culture: Gambia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pepper Soup is a popular dish in Gambia, known for its spicy and flavorful broth. This recipe combines traditional African spices with chicken and tomato paste to create a delicious and comforting meal.

History

Pepper Soup has been a staple in Gambian cuisine for generations, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe. It is often served at special occasions and gatherings, bringing people together over a warm and satisfying bowl of soup.

Ingredients

1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp red pepper
1 tbsp seasoning salt
dash of garlic salt
1 tbsp chicken flavoring (maggi cube)
1 can (6-8 oz or 227 g) of tomato paste
1 lb (454 g) of cut up chicken

How to prepare

Boil the chicken in a large pot for ten minutes with 8 cups of water.
Add black pepper, red pepper seasoning salt, garlic salt, and chicken flavoring (Maggi cube).
Continue boiling until there is about 2 cups of broth left in the pan.
Add a can of tomato paste and cook until the soup thickens.
Serve the soup over rice.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of this soup, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, try toasting the black pepper and red pepper in a dry skillet before adding them to the pot. This will help release their oils and intensify their taste. Additionally, be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning salt and Maggi cube to suit your personal preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pepper Soup over a bed of steamed rice for a complete and filling meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the chicken in water helps create a flavorful broth for the soup. Be sure to simmer the soup until it thickens to ensure all the flavors are well incorporated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs. You can also use beef or fish instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Pepper Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pepper Soup in individual bowls with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. You can also top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this spicy soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pepper Soup contains approximately 250 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pepper Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a filling and satisfying meal option.

Fats

With the chicken as the main protein source, Pepper Soup is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 8 grams.

Proteins

Pepper Soup is a great source of protein, with each serving providing about 25 grams. This nutrient is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomato paste. It also contains iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Pepper Soup is a well-rounded meal option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Pepper Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly nights or special occasions. With its spicy broth and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was on a trip to The Gambia, a beautiful country in West Africa that I had always wanted to visit. I had heard so much about the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of the region, and I couldn't wait to experience it for myself.

During my time in The Gambia, I had the opportunity to stay with a local family who welcomed me with open arms. They were gracious enough to invite me into their kitchen, where I watched in awe as they prepared a traditional dish known as Pepper Soup. The enticing aroma of the spices filled the air, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this flavorful soup for myself.

The matriarch of the family, Mama Fatou, took me under her wing and taught me the art of making Pepper Soup. She explained that this dish was a staple in Gambian households, often enjoyed as a hearty meal on chilly evenings or as a comforting remedy for colds and flu. The key to making a delicious Pepper Soup, she told me, was in the careful selection and blending of spices.

Mama Fatou showed me how to prepare the base of the soup by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a generous amount of palm oil. She then added in a mixture of ground spices, including cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper, which gave the soup its signature fiery kick. To balance out the heat, she stirred in a dollop of creamy peanut butter, which added a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.

Next, Mama Fatou added in chunks of tender goat meat, which she had marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices overnight. She explained that the longer the meat marinated, the more flavorful and tender it would become. As the meat simmered in the fragrant broth, she tossed in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh okra, which added a pop of color and texture to the soup.

After letting the soup simmer for a few hours, Mama Fatou declared it ready to be enjoyed. She ladled generous portions of the Pepper Soup into bowls and garnished each serving with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of tangy lime juice. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to take my first spoonful.

As I savored the first bite of the Pepper Soup, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting warmth. The combination of spices, peanut butter, and tender meat created a symphony of taste that danced on my taste buds. I could see why this dish was so beloved in The Gambia – it was a true celebration of the country's vibrant culinary heritage.

After my time in The Gambia, I returned home with a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking and a desire to recreate the flavors of Pepper Soup in my own kitchen. I sourced the best quality ingredients and followed Mama Fatou's instructions to a tee, adjusting the spices and seasonings to suit my own taste.

Over the years, I have perfected my recipe for Pepper Soup Gambia, incorporating my own twists and tweaks to create a dish that is both authentic and unique. Whenever I make this soup, I am reminded of my time in The Gambia and the warm hospitality of Mama Fatou and her family. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that they shared with me, and I will always cherish the memories of my culinary adventures in this beautiful country.