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 Nigerian Egusi Soup

Description: A rich, hearty Nigerian soup made with ground melon seeds, vegetables, and meat. Find the recipe here!

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Key Ingredients:

  • Ground egusi (melon seeds)

  • Spinach or bitterleaf

  • Meat (beef, goat, or chicken)

  • Palm oil

  • Onions, garlic, and spices

Flavor Profile:
Savory, slightly nutty from the egusi, with a rich, earthy taste from palm oil and greens. Spicy and comforting.

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Recipe for 2 People:

Anchor 1

  • 1 cup ground egusi (melon seeds)

  • 200g meat (beef, goat, or chicken)

  • 1/2 cup palm oil

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cups spinach or bitterleaf (fresh or frozen)

  • 2 cups water

  • 1 tsp ground crayfish (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 1 or 2 seasoning cubes (or to taste)

  • Salt (to taste)​

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meat:

    • Cut the meat into pieces, season with salt, and cook in a pot with water until tender (about 30 minutes). Set the cooked meat aside. You can also use stockfish or dried fish if preferred.

  2. Cook the Egusi:

    • In a separate pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat.

    • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3-5 minutes).

    • Stir in the ground egusi and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the egusi thickens and the oil starts to separate. Be careful not to burn it.

  3. Add Water & Seasoning:

    • Gradually add 2 cups of water to the pot with the egusi. Stir to mix well.

    • Add the crayfish (optional), seasoning cubes, and salt to taste. Stir and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes.

  4. Add Meat & Vegetables:

    • Add the cooked meat to the soup. Stir well.

    • Add the spinach or bitterleaf (fresh or frozen). Stir again and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

  5. Serve:

    • Serve your Egusi Soup hot with pounded yam, fufu, or rice.

Enjoy your flavorful, hearty Egusi Soup!

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