White Soup, also known as “Ofe Nsala” in Igbo, is a flavorful and aromatic Nigerian delicacy that originates from the southeastern part of the country.
This unique soup is characterized by its light color and rich taste, making it a favorite for special occasions and gatherings.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook white soup:
Ingredients
- Assorted meats (chicken, goat meat, or fish)
- 1 cup of yam cubes
- 1 tablespoon of uziza seeds (substitute: black peppercorns)
- 1 tablespoon of ground crayfish
- 1 teaspoon of ground ogiri or ground ogbono seeds (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons of ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt and seasoning cubes (to taste)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon of ground utazi leaves (substitute: bitter leaves)
- 1 teaspoon of ground ehuru seeds (substitute: cloves)
- 2 tablespoons of palm oil
- Water or chicken broth
Instructions
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Prepare the Assorted Meats
Season the meats with onions, seasoning cubes, salt, and desired spices.
Also Read: How To Cook Bitter Leaf Soup
Cook the meats until tender. If using fish, cook separately and set aside.
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Boil the Yam Cubes
Boil the yam cubes until they are soft and can be easily mashed.
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Create the Uziza Spice Blend
Dry-roast the uziza seeds and ehuru seeds (or cloves) separately until fragrant.
Grind the roasted uziza seeds, ground crayfish, ground pepper, and ground utazi leaves together to create a flavorful spice blend.
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Prepare the Soup Base
In a pot, heat the palm oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
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Add Seasonings and Yam
Incorporate the ground uziza spice blend and ground ogiri or ground ogbono (if using) into the palm oil mixture. Stir well.
Also Read: How To Cook Banga Soup (Palm Nut Soup): A Flavorful Nigerian Delicacy
Add the boiled yam cubes and mash them to thicken the soup.
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Introduce Chicken Broth or Water
Gradually add chicken broth or water to the pot while stirring continuously. The soup should have a light consistency.
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Add Cooked Meats and Fish
Add the cooked meats and fish to the soup base. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
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Adjust Seasonings
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and seasoning cubes according to your preference.
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Simmer and Serve
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. That is how to how to Cook white soup
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Serve and Enjoy
Your fragrant and flavorful White Soup is ready to be savored. Serve it hot alongside traditional Nigerian staples like pounded yam, fufu, or semolina.
White Soup is a reflection of Nigeria’s culinary diversity, and its harmonious blend of spices and ingredients creates a culinary experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the delicate flavors and cultural essence that this dish embodies. Share the joy of savoring this traditional delight with friends and family, and relish the heartwarming connection to Nigerian cuisine that White Soup brings with every spoonful.
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