Egusi Soup Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 11, 2025

17

Share

Egusi Soup Recipe: A Delicious and Authentic Nigerian Delight

Egusi soup is a hearty and flavorful Nigerian soup made from ground melon seeds (egusi). It's a staple in many Nigerian homes and a beloved dish for its rich, nutty taste and versatility. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious and authentic egusi soup that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe provides enough for about 4-6 servings. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.

• For the Soup Base:

  • 1 cup ground melon seeds (egusi)
  • 1 cup palm oil (red palm oil is traditional, but you can use other oils if desired)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 2-3 seasoning cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
  • 1 teaspoon ground crayfish (optional, but adds a nice flavor)
  • Salt to taste

• For the Protein and Vegetables:

  • 1 pound beef or goat meat, cut into bite-sized pieces (can be substituted with chicken or fish)
  • 1 cup spinach or ugu leaves, chopped
  • 1 cup bitter leaf (optional, adds a slightly bitter but traditional flavor)
  • 1 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat: Wash the meat thoroughly and cook until tender. You can pressure cook it to save time or simmer it on the stovetop. Set aside the cooked meat. Pro Tip: Using leftover cooked meat will significantly reduce prep time.

2. Prepare the Egusi: In a bowl, mix the ground egusi with a small amount of water to form a smooth paste. This prevents clumping in the soup.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and scotch bonnet peppers and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the peppers.

4. Bloom the Spices: Add the ground crayfish (if using) to the pot and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.

5. Add the Egusi Paste: Gradually add the egusi paste to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the egusi is slightly browned and fragrant. This step is crucial for the development of rich flavor.

6. Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked meat, seasoning cubes, salt, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Add the Greens: Stir in the chopped spinach (or ugu leaves) and bitter leaf (if using) during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Cook until the greens are wilted but still slightly green. Don't overcook!

8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious egusi soup hot with fufu, pounded yam, eba, or any other desired swallow.

Tips for the Best Egusi Soup:

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will make a significant difference in the taste of your soup.
• Don't Overcook the Egusi: Overcooked egusi can become bitter.
• Adjust the Spice: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet peppers to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like tomatoes, okra, or pumpkin leaves.
• Make it Your Own: Egusi soup is very adaptable. Feel free to adjust this recipe to your taste!

This recipe provides a solid foundation for making delicious egusi soup. With practice, you'll master the technique and create your own unique variations. Enjoy!