How to make Okra soup
(okra soup) Not everyone who knows this popular dish and enjoys eating it knows how to prepare it. You might be here because, perhaps today, you finally want to learn how this delicious food is made. Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, and I’m excited to guide you through every step of preparing this amazing soup. By the end, you’ll not only know how to make it, but you’ll also appreciate the effort that goes into creating such a flavorful dish.
Okra, the star ingredient of this soup, is a very healthy food that I personally consider the best soup option so far. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits. Not only does it support digestive health, but it can also help lower cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar. The unique texture of okra adds a delightful thickness to the soup, making it a favorite among many.
Ingredients for This Soup and Prices
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. The prices listed below can vary based on your location and the quality of the ingredients, so keep that in mind. Additionally, your budget will determine how much you can purchase.
- Okra: 500 Naira
- Vegetable leaves (such as spinach or pumpkin leaves): 200 Naira and upward, depending on the type and freshness.
- Crayfish: 200 Naira, a great addition that enhances the flavor profile.
- Ice fish: 800 Naira or catfish: 3,500 Naira, both of which add a delicious seafood element to the soup. Choose based on your preference and availability.
- Snail: If you’re a fan, this can add a unique texture and taste to the dish.
- Chicken meat: Select what you like best. You can use one or two types of protein, as having a mix will enhance the soup’s richness and flavor.
- Fresh pepper: 200 Naira, for that spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Onion: 200 Naira, which will provide a savory base for your soup.
- Seasoning cubes or powder: 50 Naira, for an extra burst of flavor.
- Red oil (palm oil): 1,200 Naira, which is essential for that authentic taste and vibrant color
Procedure for Preparing Okra Soup
Prepare the Okra:
- Wash the okra thoroughly with clean water.
- Cut the okra into tiny pieces. The cuts will typically form circular shapes due to the natural shape of the okra. However, you can also make cross-cuts for a different pattern.
- After cutting, place the okra in a bowl and set it aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the vegetables thoroughly.
- Cut them into small pieces. If you prefer, you can have this done at the local market where you bought the vegetables.
- Once cut, wash them again if necessary and set them aside in a bowl.
Prepare the Protein:
- Wash the meat, fish, or any other protein you are using thoroughly.
- Place the cleaned protein into a clean pot.
- Cut an onion and pound some pepper using a mortar and pestle, or you can blend the pepper if you prefer. Add these to the pot with the protein.
- Add a little water to the pot.
Season and Steam the Protein:
- Add seasoning cubes, pounded or powdered crayfish, and a pinch of salt to the pot.
- Cover the pot and allow the protein to steam.
- For fish, steam for about 5 minutes.
- For meat or chicken, steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the protein becomes soft and tender.
Add Palm Oil:
- Once the protein has softened, add a small amount of palm oil to the pot.
- The oil should be just enough to change the color of the soup to a slight red.
Cook the Okra:
- Add the okra to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes.
- Be observant while cooking. If you notice the okra starting to dry up, add a little water to maintain the desired consistency.
Add the Vegetables:
- After cooking the okra for a few minutes, add the vegetables.
- Stir the soup gently and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, ensuring that the vegetables are cooked but still vibrant and fresh.
Final Touches:
Allow the soup to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. This short cooking time ensures that the vegetables and okra retain their essential nutrients, providing you with a meal that is both delicious and healthy. Overcooking can diminish the nutritional value of these ingredients, so it’s important to keep a close eye on the soup during this final stage.
Once the vegetables are tender but still vibrant, and the flavors have melded together beautifully, you can congratulate yourself—your okra soup is now ready to be served! The rich aroma of the soup should fill your kitchen, making it clear that your efforts have paid off.
Serving Suggestions
Okra soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some traditional accompaniments:
- Fufu (Akpu): This is a popular choice for pairing with okra soup. Fufu is made from fermented cassava and has a smooth, elastic texture that complements the thick, flavorful okra soup perfectly. It’s my personal favorite, as I find it to be the best combination. The mild taste of fufu allows the flavors of the soup to really shine.
- Eba (Garri): Eba, made from processed cassava flour, is another favorite. It’s quick and easy to prepare, and its slightly grainy texture provides a nice contrast to the smoothness of the soup. Many people prefer eba with okra soup because it’s filling and satisfying, making it a go-to option for a hearty meal.
- Pounded Yam: For those who enjoy a richer and more indulgent pairing, pounded yam is an excellent choice. Made from boiled yams that are pounded into a dough-like consistency, pounded yam has a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory notes of the okra soup.
watch video to see how to make okra soup (Note :in this video another recipe was used)
Enjoying Your Meal
Whichever side dish you choose, make sure to enjoy your meal while the soup is still warm. The combination of the tender okra, savory protein, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting and nutritious dish that’s sure to be a hit with your family or guests.
While fufu might be my top pick, I’ve noticed that most people really enjoy okra soup with eba, as it provides a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The choice is entirely up to you, so feel free to experiment and find out which pairing you like best.
Remember, the joy of cooking lies not just in the preparation but in the sharing of the meal. So gather your loved ones, serve the soup with your favorite side, and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor!
