FOOD

How To Cook Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup

Published

8 months ago

May 5, 2024

Goat Meat Pepper Soup: Learn The Nigerian Version | Fab.ng

Nigerian pepper soup is a spicy soup traditionally made in West Africa. It has various meats or fish, vegetables, and strong spices. Today, we’ll learn a favourite version: Nigerian goat meat pepper soup with white yam!

This recipe adds a twist by including yam chunks directly in the soup for a complete, hearty meal. You can also boil the yam separately and serve it on the side.

Pepper soup is known for its powerful kick—it’s very spicy. But it’s also incredibly flavorful, and it uses healthy spices and herbs. These spices are perfect for cold weather. Some even have natural cold- and flu-fighting properties.

Unlike thicker soups like okra or egusi, pepper soup is meant to be enjoyed on its own. You can also eat it with simple sides, like boiled white yam.

If you’ve never tried Nigerian pepper soup, get ready for an unforgettable experience! This goat meat and yam combo is packed with flavour and will transport you straight to Nigeria with every delicious bite.

What is Nigerian pepper soup spice made of?

This recipe uses a special spice mix that gives Nigerian pepper soup its authentic flavour. The mix includes African calabash nutmeg (Ehuru in Igbo), grains of Selim (Uda in Igbo), and alligator pepper. You can find this spice mix already made at most African stores or online. It’s usually gluten-free and sodium-free, but always check the label to be sure.

The spice mix is very spicy, so be careful when adding it to your soup. Start with a small amount, like a tablespoon, and taste as you go. You can always add more later if you need it.

Ultimately, you control how spicy your pepper soup is. On top of the spice mix, this recipe also uses scotch bonnet peppers, which are another source of heat in the soup.

Goat Meat yam Pepper Soup | Fab.ng

Ingredients for goat meat yam pepper soup

For this Nigerian pepper soup, you’ll need:

Protein: Goat meat (or your preferred protein)
Vegetables: African Yam (Nigerian yam tuber, recommended for freshness and available at African stores)
Spices and flavourings:
- Natural, sodium-free Nigerian pepper soup spice mix
- Fresh scotch bonnet peppers (be careful, they’re spicy!)
- Red bell peppers
- Chopped onions
- Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning
- Dry crawfish (optional, for a seafood flavour)
- Utazi leaves (use sparingly; they’re bitter)
- Basil leaves (optional; adds freshness)
- Fresh ginger (optional, recommended)
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for sautéing vegetables)
Salt: To taste

How to prepare Nigerian goat meat pepper soup

To begin, gather the essential ingredients, including the ultimate Nigerian pepper soup spice, which is crucial for an authentic flavour. You’ll also need vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and fresh bonnet peppers.

When selecting bonnet peppers, keep in mind that they are very hot and spicy. If you prefer a milder flavour, you can substitute them with other spicy peppers, like jalapenos.

Goat Meat yam Pepper Soup | Fab.ng

These ingredients will add depth and heat to your pepper soup, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, you must ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. For this recipe, you’ll need goat meat, bell peppers, onions, scotch bonnet peppers, dry crawfish, salt, Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning, African yam tuber, fresh ginger, Nigerian spice (pepper soup spice), olive oil (optional), and basil leaves.

2. Wash, cut, and blend the vegetables

Start by washing the bell peppers and onions thoroughly. Then, cut them into chunks and add them to a blender. Similarly, wash the scotch bonnet peppers and remove the seeds if desired for a milder flavour.

Add them to the blender along with the dry crawfish. Blend everything with some water until you achieve a smooth consistency.

3. Wash and clean the goat meat

Properly wash and clean the goat meat under cold, running water. You must ensure that the meat is free from any impurities. If the meat is frozen, thaw it completely before washing. Once washed, pat it dry with paper towels and place it in a clean pot.

4. Starting with the meat, cook your Nigerian goat meat pepper soup

Pour the blended vegetable mixture over the goat meat in the pot. Season the meat with salt and Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Cover the pot and let the meat cook on medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.

Allow it to cook for about 30 minutes until the meat is partially tender.

5. Prepare the yam

While the meat is cooking, wash, peel, and cut the African yam tuber into sizeable chunks. Keep the yam pieces in cold water to prevent them from turning brown.

If you have sensitive skin, you should wear gloves while handling and cutting the yam to avoid discomfort or itching.

6. Add pepper soup spice and water

After the meat has cooked for 30 minutes, grate fresh ginger into the pot for added flavour. Then, add water and the Nigerian spice (pepper soup spice) to the pot. If desired, you can also add a tablespoon of olive or vegetable oil for richness.

Stir everything well to ensure that the flavours are evenly distributed. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 35–45 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.

7. Add the yam to finish up cooking

Once the meat is tender and infused with the flavours of the spices, drain the water from the yam chunks and add them to the pot. Stir gently to combine the yam with the soup. Cover the pot and let the yam cook for about 10–20 minutes until it becomes tender.

Finally, add sliced or chopped basil leaves to the soup for a fresh burst of flavour. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious and authentic Nigerian goat meat pepper soup that’s bursting with flavour and perfect for any occasion.

Some important tips to keep in mind when making this pepper soup

The cooking time for your pepper soup may vary depending on the size of the meat chunks you cut. Larger pieces will take longer to cook than smaller ones.
Pepper soup spice is known for its heat, so add it according to your taste preference. You can adjust the amount to make your soup more or less spicy.
If you’re planning to meal-prep your pepper soup, you may want to skip adding yam directly to the soup. Instead, boil the African yam tuber separately. Once cooked, you can add the boiled yam and pepper soup to separate freezer-friendly containers before freezing for easy storage.
Ensure you use a high-quality, all-natural Nigerian pepper soup spice for the best flavour. Look for options that are gluten-free and sodium-free, especially if you have dietary restrictions.

How to serve Nigerian goat meat pepper soup

Combining goat meat pepper soup with African yam tubers creates a delicious pairing that many consider heavenly. Yam pepper soup is especially beloved and can elevate your next pepper soup experience.
In Nigerian culture, pepper soup is commonly served as an appetiser in restaurants and homes. It’s a favourite among enthusiasts like myself, and while it’s often enjoyed during colder weather, it’s actually a year-round delight.
Pepper soup can be served on its own or paired with other dishes like Nigerian Agidi (corn flour jelly), offering versatility in serving options to suit different preferences.
For the best flavour and experience, it’s recommended to enjoy pepper soup while it’s still warm or slightly hot. Reheating it before serving ensures you get the full richness of the spices and ingredients.

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FOOD

3 Delicious Recipes For Making Akidi (Black Beans)

Published

2 weeks 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

2 weeks 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.

FOOD

How To Make Crispy Plantain Chips At Home

Published

3 weeks ago

December 1, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Do you want to learn how to make plantain chips with the best recipe? Well, plantain chips are a popular snack in many parts of the world, especially in Africa and the Caribbean.

They are crispy and savoury and can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of dips. Making plantain chips at home is a fun and easy process that allows you to control the ingredients and customise the flavour.

Now, if your answer to the first question above is “yes,” read on to learn how to make the best crispy plantain chips at home.

Ingredients for Plantain Chips Recipe

Ripe plantains
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt (to taste)
Optional seasonings: paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder

Equipment Needed for Plantain Chips Recipe

Large pot or deep fryer
Cutting board
Knife
Paper towels

Recipe for Making Crispy Plantain Chips at Home

1. Prepare the Plantains:

Peel the ripe plantains. Ripe plantains have a yellow or brownish-yellow colour and are slightly soft.
Cut the plantains into thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.

2. Soak the Plantain Slices:

To prevent the plantain slices from turning brown, soak them in a bowl of cold water with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. This will help to neutralise the enzymes that cause browning.

3. Dry the Plantain Slices:

Remove the plantain slices from the water and pat them dry with paper towels.

4. Heat the Oil:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of plantain into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the Plantain Slices:

Working in small batches, carefully add the plantain slices to the hot oil. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per batch.

6. Drain the Plantain Chips:

Remove the fried plantain chips from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.

7. Season the Plantain Chips:

While the plantain chips are still warm, sprinkle them with salt and any other desired seasonings.

8. Cool and Serve:

Let the plantain chips cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tips for the Perfect Plantain Chips Recipe

Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy plantain chips. If the oil is too hot, the chips will burn; if it’s too cold, they will be greasy.
Plantain Ripeness: Use ripe plantains for the best flavour and texture. Underripe plantains will be too hard and difficult to fry.
Drying the Plantain Slices: Make sure the plantain slices are completely dry before frying. Excess moisture can cause the oil to splatter and the chips to become soggy.
Batch Size: Fry the plantain chips in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and ensure even cooking.
Seasoning: Experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavours. Some popular options include chilli powder, cumin, and curry powder.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily make delicious and crispy plantain chips at home. This plantain chips recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying snack.

Click here to find more recipes to try.