Egusi soup is a common Nigerian dish that is made from melon seeds that are grounded and a variety of other ingredients. This soup is basic in several Nigerian households and is commonly eaten with fufu or pounded yam. Egusi soup is delicious and is also packed with nutrients that provide a variety of health benefits.
Ingredients:
- 250g of ground egusi (melon seeds)
- 500 g of meat or fish (chicken, beef, or fish)
- 2 tablespoons of palm oil
- 1 onion finely chopped.
- 2 cups of chopped vegetables (spinach, pumpkin leaves, or bitter leaves)
- 2 cups of water or chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons of ground crayfish
- 1 teaspoon of ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Salt to taste
How To Prepare This Recipe:
- In a pot, boil the meat or fish until tender, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pan, heat the palm oil over medium heat and panfry the chopped onions until they are translucent.
- Add the ground egusi to the pan and stir continuously for 5-7 minutes until it is toasted.
- Add the meat or fish to the pan and mix well.
- Pour in the water or chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped vegetables, ground crayfish, ground pepper, ground cumin, and ground coriander.
- Stir well.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened, and the vegetables are cooked.
- Add salt to taste and serve hot with fufu or pounded yam.
Health Benefits Of Egusi Soup
Egusi soup is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a variety of health benefits. The melon seeds used to make the soup are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and vitamin E. Additionally, the vegetables used in the soup provide additional vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being.