Bahamian Okra Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup made with okra, a medley of meats, and aromatic vegetables. This soup is a staple in Bahamian cuisine, known for its rich broth and comforting texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 pound Beef stew meat(cubed)
- 1 pound Mutton stew meat(cubed (optional, can use more beef or goat))
- 2 pounds Turkey wings(cut into pieces)
- 4 quarts Water
- 2 tbsp Palm oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 large Onions(diced)
- 1 large Bell Pepper(diced)
- 2 stalks Celery stalks(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1.5 pounds Okra(fresh, trimmed and chopped)
- 2 large Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Thyme(dried, or 2 tbsp fresh)
- 0.5 small Scotch Bonnet pepper(minced, optional for heat)
- 2 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and quartered (optional))
- 2 large Carrots(peeled and chopped (optional))
- 2 ears Corn on the cob(cut into pieces (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef, mutton, and turkey wings with 4 quarts of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meats are tender. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.
- 2
While the meat is simmering, heat the palm oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the chopped okra to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- 4
Add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the pot with the simmering meats. Stir in the thyme, minced Scotch Bonnet pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- 5
If using potatoes, carrots, or corn, add them to the pot now. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened slightly. The okra will help to thicken the broth.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the Bahamian Okra Soup hot, ensuring each bowl gets a good portion of meat and vegetables.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can brown the meats before adding them to the pot for simmering.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon or two of uncooked rice or fine cornmeal towards the end of cooking.
- ✓The slimy texture of okra is characteristic of this soup; if you prefer less slime, you can add a splash of vinegar when cooking the okra.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Vegetarian version: Omit the meats and use vegetable broth. Add more hearty vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potato.
- Seafood addition: Add shrimp or conch during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.