Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ewedu Soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The jute leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this soup both healthy and satisfying. The slimy texture of the leaves creates a unique mouthfeel that adds to the soup’s distinctiveness. When combined with the right blend of seasonings and proteins, Ewedu Soup becomes a delicious and hearty dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh or frozen Ewedu leaves (jute leaves)
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Palm oil
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Meat (beef, goat meat, or chicken)
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Stockfish (optional)
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Dry fish (optional)
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Ground crayfish
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Ground pepper (or Scotch bonnet pepper)
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Seasoning cubes
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Salt to taste
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Water or broth (from cooking the meats)
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Locust beans (iru or ogiri, optional)
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Pounded yam, fufu, or semovita (for serving)
Directions
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Prepare the Meats and Fish: Start by cutting the meats (beef, goat meat, or chicken) into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using stockfish or dry fish, soak them in warm water to soften. Season the meat with seasoning cubes, salt, and water, and cook until tender.
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Prepare the Ewedu Leaves: If you’re using fresh Ewedu leaves, wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. If you’re using frozen leaves, just thaw them according to the package instructions.
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Blend the Ewedu Leaves: In a blender or food processor, blend the washed or thawed Ewedu leaves with a little water to get a smooth consistency. You can also pound them in a mortar if you prefer a traditional method. The texture should be slimy and smooth.
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Make the Soup Base: In a separate pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat until it melts. Add the ground crayfish, ground pepper, and optional locust beans (iru) for extra flavor. Stir to combine the ingredients.
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Add the Broth: Pour the broth from the cooked meats and fish into the pot with the palm oil mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to infuse.
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Add the Ewedu: Pour the blended Ewedu into the pot with the palm oil and broth mixture. Stir to combine and let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and seasoning cubes as necessary.
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Add the Meats and Fish: Add the cooked meats, stockfish, and dry fish to the soup. Stir well and let everything simmer together for another 5-10 minutes.
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Serve: Serve the Ewedu Soup hot with your choice of pounded yam, fufu, or semovita. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes for the washing and prepping of ingredients, and the cooking time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the meat used. Total time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Variations
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Vegan Option: Skip the meats and fish and make a vegan version by using just the Ewedu leaves, palm oil, and seasonings.
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Extra Texture: Add diced okra for extra texture and thickness in the soup.
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Protein Options: Besides beef, goat meat, or chicken, you can use fish, such as mackerel or tilapia, or even snails for a different protein twist.
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Spicy Version: Increase the amount of ground pepper or add fresh Scotch bonnet peppers for a spicier soup.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover Ewedu Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding a little water if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Ewedu leaves instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen Ewedu leaves work perfectly fine and can save time, especially if fresh leaves are not available.
How do I make Ewedu Soup thicker?
Ewedu Soup is naturally thick due to the mucilaginous texture of the Ewedu leaves. If you’d like it thicker, add more Ewedu leaves or include a small amount of blended okra.
Can I use other types of meat for Ewedu Soup?
Yes, you can use chicken, goat meat, or even fish like mackerel or tilapia. The choice of protein is flexible based on your preference.
Is Ewedu Soup spicy?
The soup can be as spicy as you like. Add more ground pepper or fresh Scotch bonnet peppers to make it spicier.
How do I reduce the sliminess of Ewedu?
The slimy texture is characteristic of Ewedu. However, you can minimize it slightly by not over-blending the leaves. Some people also prefer to cook the leaves for a longer time to reduce the slime.
Can I make Ewedu Soup ahead of time?
Yes, Ewedu Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.
How do I store leftover Ewedu Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. If you plan to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1-2 months.
What is the best accompaniment for Ewedu Soup?
Ewedu Soup is traditionally enjoyed with pounded yam, fufu, or semovita. It can also be served with rice if you prefer.
Can I use other types of oil instead of palm oil?
Palm oil is traditional and gives Ewedu Soup its distinct flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or coconut oil, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Is Ewedu Soup healthy?
Yes, Ewedu Soup is healthy, as it contains nutritious jute leaves, which are high in vitamins and minerals. It also provides protein from the meat and fish.
Conclusion
Ewedu Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s full of flavor and tradition. With its smooth, slimy texture and rich seasoning, it’s a unique and delicious soup that offers a taste of Nigerian culinary culture. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or special occasion, Ewedu Soup is sure to satisfy and leave everyone craving more. Enjoy it with your favorite starchy side and savor the taste of West Africa!
Print
Ewedu Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
Ewedu Soup is a traditional Nigerian dish, especially loved by the Yoruba people. It is made from the mucilaginous leaves of the jute plant, often cooked with various meats, fish, and seasonings. Served with fufu, pounded yam, or semovita, it offers a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Fresh or frozen Ewedu leaves (jute leaves)
Palm oil
Meat (beef, goat meat, or chicken)
Stockfish (optional)
Dry fish (optional)
Ground crayfish
Ground pepper (or Scotch bonnet pepper)
Seasoning cubes
Salt to taste
Water or broth (from cooking the meats)
Locust beans (iru or ogiri, optional)
Pounded yam, fufu, or semovita (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meats and Fish: Cut the meats into bite-sized pieces. If using stockfish or dry fish, soak them in warm water to soften. Season the meat with seasoning cubes, salt, and water, and cook until tender.
- Prepare the Ewedu Leaves: Wash the fresh Ewedu leaves thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. If using frozen leaves, thaw them according to the package instructions.
- Blend the Ewedu Leaves: In a blender, blend the washed or thawed Ewedu leaves with a little water to get a smooth, slimy consistency. Alternatively, pound the leaves in a mortar.
- Make the Soup Base: In a separate pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat until it melts. Add the ground crayfish, ground pepper, and optional locust beans (iru). Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Broth: Pour the broth from the cooked meats and fish into the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Add the Ewedu: Pour the blended Ewedu into the pot. Stir well and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Meats and Fish: Add the cooked meats, stockfish, and dry fish to the soup. Stir well and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the Ewedu Soup hot with pounded yam, fufu, or semovita.
Notes
- The slimy texture of Ewedu is part of its charm. To minimize the sliminess, avoid over-blending the leaves.
- If you want a vegan version, skip the meats and fish, and focus on the Ewedu leaves and seasonings.
- Locust beans (iru) give the soup a distinct flavor, but it’s optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: West African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
