Pepper Soup

Pepper Soup
Nigeria
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 1 kg assorted meat (beef, goat meat, or chicken), cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon ground crayfish
  • 1 tablespoon pepper soup spice blend (available at African stores or online)
  • 2-3 tablespoons ground uziza seeds (optional)
  • 2-3 stock cubes or seasoning cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2-3 fresh peppers or 1-2 teaspoons ground pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2-3 tablespoons palm oil (optional)
  • 6-8 cups water or beef/chicken stock
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh herbs like scent leaves (efirin) or basil (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat

In a large pot, add the assorted meat, chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a bit of salt. Add enough water to cover the meat and cook until tender (about 30-45 minutes). You can use a pressure cooker to speed up the process.

Season the Soup

Add the ground crayfish, pepper soup spice blend, and optional ground uziza seeds to the pot. Stir well and cook for 10 minutes.

Add Spices and Peppers

Add the fresh peppers or ground pepper to the pot. If using, add palm oil for added flavor. Stir and cook for another 5-10 minutes.

Adjust Seasoning

Add stock cubes or seasoning cubes to taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.

Add Herbs (Optional)

If using, add fresh scent leaves or basil to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the herbs are tender and well combined.

Serve

Pepper soup is typically enjoyed on its own or with a side of rice, yam, plantains, or any preferred side dish.

Enjoy your meal!