Kwacoco and Banga Soup
A traditional Cameroonian delicacy, Kwacoco is made from grated cocoyams wrapped in leaves and steamed, while Banga soup is a rich, flavorful soup made from palm nut pulp, meat, fish, and aromatic spices. This combination offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 kg Cocoyams (Macabo)(peeled and thoroughly washed)
- 12 large leaves Cocoyam leaves (or spinach/collard greens)(washed and stems removed)
- 4 cups Palm nut extract
- 500 g Smoked fish (e.g., mackerel, tilapia)(cleaned and deboned)
- 1 cup Crayfish(ground)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 1 piece Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper(blended (adjust to taste))
- 2 seeds African nutmeg (Ehuru)(peeled and ground)
- 1 tsp Country onions (rondelles)(ground (optional))
- 3 pieces Seasoning cubes (Maggi)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 3 cups Water(for soup and steaming)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Kwacoco: Peel and thoroughly wash the cocoyams. Grate them using a fine grater or process in a food processor until a smooth paste is formed. Season the cocoyam paste with salt and mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning.
💡 Tip: Wear gloves when handling cocoyams as they can cause skin irritation. - 2
Wash the cocoyam leaves thoroughly. Place a spoonful of the cocoyam paste onto the center of each leaf and wrap tightly to form small bundles. Repeat until all the paste is used.
- 3
Prepare the Banga Soup: In a pot, combine the palm nut extract, water, chopped onion, blended scotch bonnet pepper, ground crayfish, ground African nutmeg, and country onions (if using). Add the smoked fish and seasoning cubes.
💡 Tip: If using fresh palm nuts, pound them, boil, and extract the pulp before proceeding. - 4
Bring the Banga soup mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
- 5
Arrange the wrapped Kwacoco bundles in a steaming pot. Add enough water to the bottom of the pot to create steam, ensuring the water level is below the Kwacoco bundles. Cover and steam for about 1 hour, or until the cocoyams are tender and well-cooked.
💡 Tip: Add water to the pot as needed during steaming to prevent it from drying out. - 6
Gently add the steamed Kwacoco bundles into the simmering Banga soup. Stir carefully to combine without breaking the bundles. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the Kwacoco to absorb the soup's flavors.
💡 Tip: Avoid vigorous stirring, as it can cause the Kwacoco to break apart. - 7
Adjust salt and seasoning to taste. Serve the Kwacoco and Banga soup hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a combination of different smoked fish.
- ✓If cocoyam leaves are unavailable, spinach or collard greens can be used as a substitute.
- ✓The spiciness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of scotch bonnet pepper.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other proteins like beef or chicken to the Banga soup.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the fish and meat and add mushrooms or tofu.