How to Prepare Okra Soup

Okra soup is a delicacy native to Nigeria. It is easy to prepare and could easily pass as the cheapest soup in Nigeria. Okro/Okra can be prepared plain and later mixed with stew or you can prepare it with all the protein in it. In the Eastern part of Nigeria, Okro soup is sometimes mixed with Ogbono. Asides being delicious, is full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Here is a step by step guide on how to prepare Okra.

Ingredients:

Fresh okra

Meat or fish (chicken, beef, or seafood)

1 medium onion, chopped

Finely chopped pepper mix (or chili pepper)

2-3 tablespoons of palm oil

2-3 cups of broth or water

2-3 garlic cloves, minced

Ground crayfish (optional)

Salt and seasoning cubes to taste

Fresh vegetables (spinach, ugu, or bitter leaf), washed and chopped

PROCEDURE:

Wash and chop the okra into small pieces. You can either slice it or blend it in a food processor for a smoother consistency. If using meat, wash and season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. If using fish, clean and season it as well.

In a pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and pepper, stir and cook for a few minutes until the pepper is cooked. Add the meat or seasoned fish to the pot. Afterwards, pour in the broth or water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the meat or fish is cooked through.

Add the chopped okra to the pot and stir. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until the okra becomes tender and slimy. If using crayfish, add it to the pot and stir. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or seasoning cubes.

Finally, add the chopped fresh vegetables (spinach, ugu, or bitter leaf) to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables wilt. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Your okra soup is now ready to be served! It pairs well with a side dish like pounded yam, fufu, eba, or any other swallow. Enjoy your meal!

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