Ghanaian Abenkwan (Palm Nut Soup)
A rich and flavorful West African soup made from palm nut cream, often simmered with various proteins like chicken, goat meat, or smoked fish. It's a staple in Ghanaian cuisine, known for its creamy texture and savory depth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken or Goat Meat(cut into pieces)
- 400 g Palm nut concentrate(canned or freshly processed)
- 2 large Onions(1 chopped, 1 whole)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(fresh)
- 3-5 pieces Habanero or Scotch Bonnet Peppers(to taste)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger(grated)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Chicken or Meat Seasoning
- 1-2 pieces Prekese (Aidan Fruit)(optional, for aroma)
- 200 g Smoked Fish (e.g., Mackerel, Catfish)(optional, for added flavor)
- 4-6 cups Hot water(to adjust consistency)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the meat with salt, chicken/meat seasoning, half of the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If using, add prekese. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
In a large pot, add the marinated meat and the whole onion. Add enough water to cover the meat and bring to a boil. Simmer until the meat is halfway tender (about 45-60 minutes for goat, 20-30 minutes for chicken).
- 3
While the meat is cooking, blend the fresh tomatoes and habanero peppers until smooth. Set aside.
- 4
In a separate bowl, combine the palm nut concentrate with 2-3 cups of hot water. Stir well until smooth and fluid. This helps to remove any impurities and achieve a smoother base.
- 5
Once the meat is halfway tender, add the blended tomato and pepper mixture to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- 6
Add the prepared palm nut base to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine with the meat and tomato mixture. If using smoked fish, add it now.
- 7
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add more hot water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Cover and let it cook for at least 30-45 minutes, or until the oil separates and rises to the surface, and the soup has thickened.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Remove the whole onion and prekese before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a combination of different proteins like beef, goat, chicken, and smoked fish.
- ✓Ensure the palm nut concentrate is well-mixed with hot water to avoid lumps.
- ✓The oil rising to the surface is a sign that the soup is well-cooked and ready.
- ✓Abenkwan is traditionally served with fufu, omo tuo (rice balls), or banku.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like garden eggs or okra towards the end of cooking.
- For a spicier soup, increase the amount of habanero or scotch bonnet peppers.