FOOD

With This Simple Recipe You Can Make Nigerian Oha Soup!

Published

2 months ago

November 10, 2024

Oha soup, also called Ora soup, is a delicious and nutritious dish from the southeastern region of Nigeria. Known for its unique taste and texture, Oha soup is a popular staple among the Igbo people and is cherished for its rich blend of flavours, leafy greens, and thick consistency.

This recipe breaks down the steps to make an authentic Oha soup at home.

Ingredients You Will Need for Oha Soup

To make Oha soup, gather these essential ingredients:

Oha leaves (Ora leaves) – 1 handful (finely chopped)
Cocoyam – 8-10 small pieces (for thickening)
Palm oil – 2-3 tablespoons
Beef or goat meat – 500 grams
Stockfish – 1 cup (optional)
Dry fish – 1 cup
Snails – 1 cup (optional)
Ground crayfish – 2 tablespoons
Ogiri (fermented locust beans) – 1 teaspoon
Fresh pepper – to taste
Seasoning cubes – 2
Salt – to taste
Waterleaf or spinach – 1 handful (optional, for extra greens)
Optional proteins – Oha soup is versatile and can be prepared with a variety of proteins, including cow tripe (shaki), chicken, and cow skin (ponmo). Feel free to add or substitute based on preference.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Use your fingers to tear the Oha leaves into small pieces. Avoid cutting with a knife, as it can make the leaves darker and affect the taste.
2. Wash and boil the cocoyam until it becomes tender. Then, pound it into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle. This serves as the soup thickener.
3. Wash your beef, dry fish, and other meats thoroughly. Cut into desired sizes and season with salt and seasoning cubes.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Stock

1. In a large pot, add the beef, stockfish, dry fish, and snails (if using). Season with salt and seasoning cubes.
2. Pour enough water to cover the meats, then cover the pot and allow it to cook for 30-40 minutes until the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
3. Taste the stock and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is crucial because the stock forms the base of the soup.

Step 3: Add Palm Oil and Cocoyam Paste

1. Once the meat is cooked, add the palm oil directly into the pot. Stir well and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to dissolve in the stock.
2. Take spoonfuls of the pounded cocoyam paste and add them to the pot. This thickens the soup, giving it a rich, creamy consistency.
3. Stir gently and allow the cocoyam to dissolve fully. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes. The soup should thicken gradually.

Step 4: Add Crayfish, Ogiri, and Fresh Pepper

1. Sprinkle in the ground crayfish for a deeper flavour.
2. Ogiri adds a traditional, slightly pungent taste to the soup. Add it in small amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.
3. Include fresh pepper according to your spice preference. Stir the ingredients well and let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

1. Add waterleaf or spinach: This step is optional but recommended for extra greens and a touch of freshness.
2. Finally, add the Oha leaves to the pot. Stir them gently into the soup and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the leaves, as they are delicate and can lose their colour and flavour.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your Oha soup is now ready! Serve it hot with your favourite swallows, such as pounded yam, fufu, or eba. The rich flavours of the meats, fish, and vegetables come together in this hearty dish, making it a truly satisfying meal.

Oha soup Recipe | fab.ng

Tips for a Perfect Oha Soup

Use fresh Oha leaves: The taste of Oha soup is best when the leaves are fresh.
Avoid using a knife on the leaves: Tearing the leaves by hand preserves their natural colour and prevents bitterness. It also makes the leaves more visible and lasting in the soup.
Balance the ogiri: Ogiri has a strong flavour, so add it gradually until you reach the desired taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Oha Soup

Oha soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a good source of protein (from meat and fish), healthy fats (from palm oil), and fibre (from vegetables).

Cocoyam provides complex carbohydrates, which give you lasting energy. Additionally, Oha leaves contain essential vitamins and minerals that boost immunity and improve skin health.

What can I use to thicken Oha soup if I don’t have cocoyam?

If you don’t have cocoyam, you can use achi, ofor, or even yam as a substitute thickener. These alternatives will help achieve a similar consistency and are also commonly used in Nigerian soups.

Can I make Oha soup without ogiri?

Yes, you can make Oha soup without ogiri, though it may lack the unique flavour ogiri provides. If you don’t like ogiri or cannot find it, you can substitute it with iru (locust beans), which offers a milder flavour.

How do I store leftover Oha soup?

To store Oha soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to a month.

Reheat on the stove, adding a little water if the soup has thickened too much.

Oha soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that reflects the richness of Nigerian cuisine. With its unique combination of ingredients, this recipe provides a delightful experience that’s perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.

Follow these steps to create an authentic, satisfying Oha soup, and enjoy the warm taste of traditional Nigerian cooking right in your kitchen.

For more food articles and recipes, visit here.

Up Next

6 Creative Ways To Make The Most Of Rice In Nigeria

Don't Miss

Get Rid Of Bad Breath With These 5 Foods

FOOD

4 Tips For A Stress-Free Cooking Experience This Christmas

Published

4 weeks ago

December 22, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

4 Tips For Stress-Free Cooking Experience This Christmas | fab.ng

The Christmas season is a time for joy, family, and delicious meals. However, cooking can often feel overwhelming, especially with the holiday hustle. With the right approach, cooking Christmas meals can be a stress-free experience.

Here are four practical tips for a stress-free cooking experience this Christmas.

1. Plan Ahead for Every Detail

Preparation is the key to success in the kitchen. Start by creating a detailed menu. Write down the dishes you want to make, the ingredients you need, and the estimated time for each recipe. This planning ensures you stay organised.

Invest time in grocery shopping early. Stores can be crowded closer to Christmas, so getting what you need in advance helps avoid the rush.

Batch-process tasks like peeling vegetables or marinating meat a day or two before. Following these tips for stress-free cooking keeps last-minute chaos at bay.

2. Simplify Your Menu

Christmas meals don’t need to be extravagant to be memorable. Focus on a few key dishes that everyone loves rather than a spread that leaves you exhausted. Choose recipes that are easy to prepare and don’t require constant attention.

For desserts, consider make-ahead options like pies or cookies. These can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. Simplifying your menu is one of the best tips for stress-free cooking this Christmas.

3. Use Time-Saving Tools and Techniques

Modern kitchen gadgets are lifesavers during Christmas. Slow cookers, food processors, and stand mixers can help speed up the process while reducing effort.

For large meals, use your oven efficiently. Bake multiple dishes at once if they require the same temperature. Pre-chop ingredients or buy pre-cut options to save valuable time.

Embrace these tips for stress-free cooking to make your holiday meal prep smoother and faster.

4. Delegate and Involve Others

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Share the workload with family or friends. Assign simple tasks like setting the table, washing vegetables, or stirring sauces to others.

If guests offer to bring a dish, accept their help. Potluck-style dinners reduce your cooking burden while adding variety to the table.

Delegating responsibilities is among the most effective tips for stress-free cooking, ensuring you enjoy the process too.

Cooking for Christmas doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By planning ahead, simplifying your menu, using time-saving techniques, and involving others, you can create a joyful and memorable meal.

These four tips for stress-free cooking will not only lighten your load but also let you focus on the true spirit of the season: togetherness and gratitude.

Keep these strategies in mind as you prepare your holiday feast. Merry Christmas and happy cooking!

For more reads, visit here.

FOOD

3 Delicious Recipes For Making Akidi (Black Beans)

Published

1 month ago

December 8, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

3 Delicious Recipes for Making Akidi (Black Beans) | fab.ng

Akidi (black beans) recipes are a cornerstone of Enugu State’s culinary heritage, enjoyed widely across Nigeria and Africa. This versatile legume, rich in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, makes it a nutritious staple in many homes.

Originating from Enugu, akidi holds a special place in traditional dishes, offering robust flavour and health benefits.

If you’re looking to expand your cooking repertoire, these three delicious akidi (black beans) recipes will elevate your meals.

Whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen novice, each akidi (black beans) recipe provides a unique taste experience.

Embrace the richness of Enugu’s culture and impress your family with these flavourful and nutritious dishes featuring the beloved black beans.

Recipe 1: Classic Akidi Soup

Ingredients:

1 cup dried black beans (akidi)
1 large onion, chopped
2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
2 tablespoons palm oil
1 teaspoon dried crayfish
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 stock cube
Water

Instructions:

Soak the beans: Rinse the black beans and soak them in water overnight.
Cook the beans: Drain the soaked beans and add them to a pot with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the palm oil in a separate pot. Add the chopped onion and scotch bonnet peppers, and sauté until fragrant.
Combine the ingredients: Add the sautéed ingredients to the pot of cooked beans. Stir in the dried crayfish, salt, black pepper, and stock cube.
Simmer and serve: Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the flavours are well combined. Serve hot.

Recipe 2: Akidi with Spinach and Plantain

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked black beans (akidi)
1 bunch spinach, chopped
2 ripe plantains, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Vegetable oil

Instructions:

Heat the vegetable oil in a pot. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
Add the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.
Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked black beans, curry powder, and turmeric powder to the pot. Stir to combine.
Fry the plantains: In a separate pan, fry the plantain slices until golden brown.
Serve: Serve the akidi and spinach mixture with the fried plantains.

Recipe 3: Akidi with Smoked Fish and Vegetables

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked black beans (akidi)
1 smoked fish, crumbled
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Vegetable oil

Instructions:

Heat the vegetable oil in a pot. Add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
Add the beans and smoked fish: Add the cooked black beans and crumbled smoked fish to the pot. Stir to combine.
Season and simmer: Season with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavours are well-combined.
Serve: Serve the akidi with smoked fish and vegetables hot with rice, yam, or bread.

These three akidi (black beans) recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavours to create your own unique dishes.

Remember, the key to a delicious akidi dish is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook slowly to allow the flavours to develop.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these akidi (black beans) recipes are a great way to enjoy this nutritious and flavourful legume.

For more articles on food recipes, visit here.

FOOD

5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic

Published

1 month ago

December 7, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

5 Health Benefits of Cooking With Garlic | fab.ng

Garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it offers numerous health benefits that have been celebrated for centuries. Incorporating garlic into your meals not only enriches the taste but also boosts your overall well-being.

Let’s explore five key health benefits of garlic, emphasising why this simple ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen.

1. Boosts Heart Health

Garlic is renowned for its heart-protective properties. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels, which are crucial factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Allicin, a compound found in garlic, relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Regular consumption of garlic may also prevent artery hardening, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clearly, one of the primary health benefits of garlic is its contribution to a healthy heart.

2. Strengthens the Immune System

Garlic acts as a powerful immune booster. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties help the body fend off infections. Rich in antioxidants, garlic combats free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness.

Cooking with garlic regularly can support your immune system, making it more resilient against common colds and flu. This vital health benefit of garlic makes it a natural defence mechanism.

3. Improves Digestive Health

Garlic promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Its antimicrobial properties can help balance gut flora, reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.

Additionally, garlic may reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Including garlic in your diet can improve overall digestive function, emphasising another essential health benefit of garlic.

4. Enhances Bone Health

Surprisingly, garlic may also support strong bones. It contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and selenium, which are vital for bone density and strength.

Some studies suggest that garlic consumption can increase estrogen levels in women, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

This lesser-known health benefit of garlic highlights its role beyond the kitchen, contributing to long-term skeletal health.

5. Supports Detoxification

Garlic aids the body’s natural detoxification process by activating liver enzymes that help eliminate toxins. Its sulfur compounds enhance liver function, enabling the body to flush out heavy metals and harmful substances more efficiently.

Regularly cooking with garlic can provide a natural cleanse, supporting overall vitality. This detoxifying health benefit of garlic underscores its importance for maintaining internal balance.

Incorporating Garlic into Your Diet

Maximise these health benefits by adding garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces. Crush or chop it and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its beneficial compounds.

Remember, the health benefits of garlic are most potent when it’s used fresh and minimally cooked.

Cooking with garlic not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers significant health advantages. Embrace this versatile ingredient and enjoy the multiple health benefits of garlic with every meal.

Would you like more articles or additional tips? Check here.