Nigerian Ogbono Soup
A rich and savory Nigerian 'draw soup' made from ground wild mango seeds (ogbono), known for its thick, mucilaginous texture. It's a hearty and comforting dish often served with starchy 'swallows'.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Assorted meat (e.g., beef, goat meat, tripe, shaki)
- 100g Stockfish (e.g., Eja Osan, Eja Igbadun)
- 150g Ground Ogbono seeds(Ensure it's finely ground for a smooth draw. Some prefer to lightly toast them before grinding for enhanced flavor.)
- 150ml Palm oil(Good quality palm oil will impart the best color and flavor.)
- 1 medium Onion
- 1-2 (or to taste) Scotch bonnet pepper
- 3 tablespoons Ground crayfish(Adds depth of flavor and umami.)
- 2-3 Seasoning cubes(Or to taste.)
- To taste Salt
- 200g Fresh spinach or bitter leaf
- Approximately 1-1.5 liters Water or meat stock
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the meat and stockfish: In a pot, combine the assorted meat, stockfish, half of the chopped onion, one seasoning cube, and a pinch of salt. Add enough water to cover and boil until the meat is tender. This can take 45-60 minutes depending on the type of meat. Reserve the meat stock.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 2
Sauté the ogbono: In a clean, dry pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat (around 180°C / 350°F). Add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the ground ogbono seeds, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Fry the ogbono in the palm oil for about 8-10 minutes, stirring continuously. The mixture will thicken and become slightly glossy. Be careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 3
Incorporate the stock: Slowly add the reserved meat stock (or water) to the fried ogbono mixture, about a cup at a time, stirring vigorously with a whisk or wooden spoon after each addition. Continue adding liquid and stirring until you achieve a smooth, thick, and slightly stretchy consistency. This step is crucial for preventing lumps and achieving the characteristic 'draw' of the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 4
Add flavorings and protein: Add the cooked assorted meat and stockfish pieces to the pot. Stir in the ground crayfish, chopped scotch bonnet pepper, and the remaining seasoning cube(s). Season with salt to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 5
Add vegetables: Stir in the washed and chopped spinach or bitter leaf. Cook for just 3-5 minutes, until the leaves are wilted but still vibrant green. Overcooking will diminish their flavor and nutrients.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 6
Final check and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The soup should have a thick, slightly slimy consistency. Serve hot with pounded yam, eba, fufu, or amala.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The 'draw' or sliminess is a key characteristic of ogbono soup and is perfectly normal. It comes from the mucilage in the ogbono seeds.
- ✓Stirring constantly when frying ogbono and when adding liquid is essential to prevent lumps and sticking.
- ✓For a smoother soup, you can blend the ogbono seeds into a fine powder.
- ✓Adjust the amount of pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓Bitter leaf must be thoroughly washed and squeezed to remove its bitterness before adding to the soup. Some prefer to boil it briefly before chopping.
- ✓Ogbono soup thickens as it cools, so the consistency when hot might be slightly thinner than when served.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped okra along with the leafy greens for an extra layer of 'draw'.
- Incorporate egusi (melon seeds) for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Add smoked fish or dried fish for additional flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves) for added greens.