Have You Heard of Egusi Soup?
EGUSI SOUP, THE DELICIOUS TRADITIONAL DISH FROM NIGERIA AND GHANA
Egusi soup is a rich and hearty traditional dish from West Africa, particularly popular in Nigeria and Ghana.
The key ingredient is egusi seeds, which are the dried seeds of certain varieties of melon and squash. These seeds are ground into a smooth paste and combined with a flavourful tomato and onion base to create a thick, satisfying soup.
RECIPE
Ingredients
- 250 g egusi seeds (or pumpkin seeds)
- 500 g stewing beef
- 5 tomatoes
- 1 small onion
- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- 100 ml vegetable oil
- 300 ml water
Method
- Grind the egusi seeds into a smooth paste and set aside.
- Blend the tomatoes, onion, salt and water until smooth.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot, add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour the tomato mixture into the pot and add the sugar and cayenne pepper.
- Cover and simmer for about 50 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
- Stir in the egusi paste and fresh spinach, then continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
- Season to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!