Fetri Detsi (Oilless Okra Soup)
Fetri Detsi is a traditional Ewe (Volta Region of Ghana) okra soup, often prepared without oil for a lighter, healthier version. It's known for its characteristic slimy texture and is packed with the flavors of various proteins like fish, crab, and sometimes cowhide. This version focuses on bringing out the natural flavors of the okra and seafood, making it a nutritious and delicious meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 750 g Okra(fresh, ends trimmed and sliced)
- 400 g Tilapia or other firm fish(cut into pieces)
- 150 g Smoked mackerel or other smoked fish(cleaned and flaked)
- 200 g Crabs (optional)(cleaned)
- 100 g Shrimp (optional)(peeled and deveined)
- 1 large Onion(blended or finely chopped)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger(grated)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet pepper(to taste)
- 30 g Salted fish (koobi/momoni)(optional, for flavor)
- 1 cup Spinach or other leafy greens(chopped (optional))
- as needed Water
- to taste Salt
- 1-2 Seasoning cubes
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, combine the fresh fish pieces, smoked fish, crabs (if using), salted fish (if using), blended onion, grated ginger, minced garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes to create a flavorful broth.
- 2
While the broth is simmering, prepare the okra. Trim the ends and slice the okra into desired sizes. Some prefer finely chopped, others larger pieces.
- 3
Add the sliced okra to the simmering broth. Stir well. If using shrimp, add them at this stage.
- 4
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the okra is tender and has developed its characteristic slimy texture. Stir occasionally.
- 5
If using spinach or other leafy greens, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing them to wilt.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and seasoning cubes as needed. The salted fish will add some saltiness, so season cautiously.
- 7
Serve hot, traditionally with banku or akple.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra sliminess, you can add a pinch of bicarbonate of soda to the okra before adding it to the soup.
- ✓Ensure all seafood is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of blended cocoyam leaves or spinach.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like garden eggs or small pieces of yam.
- Use different types of fish, including dried or fermented fish for a stronger flavor.
- For a richer soup, a small amount of palm oil can be added at the end.