Bitter leaf Soup Recipe
Bitter Leaf soup is a traditional Nigerian dish that is made with bitter leaf, a vegetable with a bitter taste that is native to Africa. The soup is typically made with a variety of meat or fish, and is seasoned with spices and herbs. It is a delicious and hearty meal that is often served with a side of fufu, a starchy dough made from cassava, yam, or plantain.
Ingredients:
2 cups of bitter leaf, washed and drained
1 pound of meat or fish (chicken, beef, goat, or fish)
1 onion, chopped
2-3 garlic cloves, minced
1-2 teaspoons of ground crayfish (optional)
1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
Salt to taste
1/4 cup of palm oil
Water
Stock cube (optional)
Equipment:
Large pot with a lid
Wooden spoon
Blender (optional)
Strainer
Cutting board
Knife
Instructions:
In a large pot, add the meat or fish, onion, garlic, stock cube (if using), and enough water to cover the meat or fish. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the meat or fish is tender.
Remove the meat or fish from the pot and set aside. If using chicken or goat meat, you can also remove the bones at this point.
Add the bitter leaf to the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Use a strainer to remove the bitter leaf from the pot and set aside.
In a blender, blend the cooked onions and garlic with some water to create a smooth paste.
In the same pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the blended onion and garlic paste and cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
Add the crayfish (if using), cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well.
Add the cooked meat or fish back to the pot and stir to combine.
Add the bitter leaf to the pot and stir well.
Add enough water to the pot to achieve your desired consistency. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Serve hot with a side of fufu.
Allergy Concerns: This recipe may contain allergens such as shellfish and nuts if stock cubes or crayfish are used. Please be sure to check the ingredients carefully before making this recipe.
Calories Intake: The calorie intake for this recipe will vary depending on the type and amount of meat or fish used.
Healthy Alternatives: To make this recipe even healthier, you can substitute the palm oil with a healthier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. You can also use leaner cuts of meat or fish, or even substitute the meat or fish with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan option.
Spicy Level: The cayenne pepper in this recipe adds a nice level of spiciness, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
Kitchen Equipments and Ingredients on Amazon:
Large pot with lid: Click to Open
Wooden spoon: Click to Open
Blender: Click to Open
Strainer: Click to Open
Cutting board: Click to Open
Knife: Click to Open
Bitter leaf: Click to Open
Ground crayfish: Click to Open
Cayenne pepper: Click to Open
Palm oil: Click to Open
Stock cube: Click to Open
We hope you find this recipe and information helpful! Enjoy making and eating your homemade Bitter Leaf soup!