Plain Soup

Plain Soup Recipe from Ghana - Authentic African Cuisine

Region / culture: Ghana | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Plain soup is a traditional African dish that is simple yet flavorful. This hearty soup is made with smoked chicken, tomatoes, garden eggs, and a blend of spices. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Plain soup has been a staple in African cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. The recipe has been passed down from one generation to the next, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) smoked beef or chicken
6 shallots, chopped
3 tomatoes
4 garden eggs
4 pt (1.89 liters) cold water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp red pepper
1 clove garlic
2 medium sized onions

How to prepare

Peel and wash the onions, then put them into a saucepan.
Wash the tomatoes, pepper, and garden eggs, and add them to the onions. Cover with cold water.
Bring to a boil and cook until soft.
Cut the meat into small pieces, wash, and season with salt, garlic, and chopped shallots.
Add a little water, put it on the fire, and allow it to boil for about 10 minutes.
Grind the cooked vegetables (tomatoes, pepper, and onions) and add them to the beef on the fire.
Add the remaining water.
Allow the soup to simmer until the meat is tender.
Remove the seeds and skin from the garden eggs, and serve them separately. Serve the soup hot with fufu.

Variations

You can add vegetables such as okra, spinach, or pumpkin to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
You can use beef or fish instead of chicken for a different twist on the dish.
You can add coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to season the meat well before adding it to the soup to ensure that it is flavorful.

- You can adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken stock instead of water.

- Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Plain soup is traditionally served with fufu, a starchy side dish made from cassava or yam. It can also be enjoyed with rice or bread.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious plain soup is to simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to develop. Be sure to season the meat well and cook it until tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find garden eggs, you can substitute with eggplant or zucchini. You can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of smoked chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the plain soup in a large bowl and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. You can also drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Plain soup pairs well with a side of fufu, rice, or bread. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover plain soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of plain soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of plain soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of plain soup contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of plain soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Plain soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Plain soup contains chicken and may not be suitable for those with poultry allergies.

Summary

Plain soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Summary

Plain soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional African recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty soup with fufu or rice for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Plain Soup. It was a chilly autumn day, and I found myself rummaging through my old recipe box looking for something warm and comforting to make for dinner. As I sifted through the index cards and scraps of paper, I came across a faded, yellowed piece of parchment with the words "Plain Soup" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive.

I couldn't quite remember where I had gotten the recipe from, but something about it called out to me. The simplicity of the name intrigued me - Plain Soup. It sounded humble and unassuming, yet somehow I knew there was more to it than meets the eye.

I set to work gathering the ingredients - onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, broth, and a few herbs and spices. As I chopped and diced, I couldn't help but think back to all the different recipes I had collected over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends and family members, and a few I had even picked up during my travels around the world.

But there was something special about this recipe for Plain Soup. It felt like a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered and shared with others. As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its comforting aroma, I felt a sense of anticipation building inside me.

When it was finally ready, I ladled out a steaming bowlful and took a tentative sip. The flavors were simple yet satisfying - a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I hosted a dinner party the following weekend and served the Plain Soup as the first course. The reactions were overwhelmingly positive - everyone loved the hearty, comforting flavors and asked for the recipe.

As word spread, more and more people began asking me for the recipe for Plain Soup. I was happy to share it with anyone who asked, and soon it became a staple in many households around town. It was a recipe that brought people together, warming both their bodies and their souls.

Over the years, I continued to make Plain Soup for my loved ones, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit different tastes and preferences. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and joy knowing that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for Plain Soup, I can't help but feel grateful for all the people and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. It's not just about the ingredients or the techniques - it's about the love and passion that go into every dish, the memories and stories that are shared around the dinner table.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a simple, comforting meal to warm your soul, look no further than the recipe for Plain Soup. It may be humble and unassuming, but I assure you, it is anything but plain. Enjoy!