Nigeria Vegetable Soup Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Nigeria’s vegetable soup is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that beautifully showcases the rich culinary heritage of West Africa. Bursting with fresh greens, hearty vegetables, and bold spices, this soup is a staple in many Nigerian homes.

Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed as a comforting weekday meal, the soup’s earthy flavors and wholesome ingredients make it both nourishing and delicious. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore authentic African cooking while embracing a healthy, vegetable-forward diet.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a traditional Nigerian vegetable soup recipe that is easy to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and delivers an authentic taste. Get ready to savor a delightful meal that’s not only full of flavor but also packed with health benefits.

Let’s dive into this colorful bowl of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nigerian vegetable soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold spices. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites:

• Rich in nutrients: Loaded with leafy greens and vegetables, it’s a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.
• Hearty and satisfying: The combination of vegetables and traditional seasonings creates a complex, comforting taste.
• Versatile and easy to customize: Whether you want it spicy or mild, with or without protein, this recipe adapts to your preferences.
• Authentic flavors: Experience the true taste of Nigerian cuisine with indigenous ingredients like bitterleaf, ugu, and traditional spices.
• Great for all occasions: Serve it during celebrations or as a nourishing everyday meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ugu leaves (fluted pumpkin leaves) or substitute with spinach, washed and chopped
• 2 cups bitterleaf (optional, for authentic flavor), washed thoroughly to remove bitterness
• 1 cup waterleaf or substitute with lamb’s lettuce or kale, chopped
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 3 medium-sized fresh tomatoes, blended
• 2 tablespoons palm oil (you can substitute with vegetable oil if unavailable)
• 1 cup assorted mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup diced pumpkin or squash
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (adjust for heat tolerance)
• 1 teaspoon crayfish powder (ground dried shrimp, optional for umami taste)
• 2 seasoning cubes (Maggi or Knorr, optional)
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 cups cooked beans or cowpeas (optional, for added protein)
• 1 cup palm kernel nuts (optional, sliced or ground for texture)

Equipment

• Large cooking pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Blender or food processor (for tomatoes)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer or colander (for washing leaves)
• Bowl for soaking bitterleaf (if using)

Instructions

1. Prepare the leaves: Thoroughly wash the ugu, bitterleaf, and waterleaf to remove dirt and grit. If using bitterleaf, soak it in water for 10-15 minutes, then rinse multiple times to reduce bitterness.
2. Blend the tomatoes: In a blender, puree the fresh tomatoes with half of the chopped onions and the scotch bonnet peppers. Set aside.
3. Heat the palm oil: In your large pot, warm the palm oil over medium heat until it’s melted and slightly shimmering.
4. Sauté onions: Add the remaining chopped onions to the oil and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add blended tomato mixture: Pour the blended tomato, pepper, and onion mix into the pot. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the raw tomato smell fades.
6. Incorporate diced pumpkin and mushrooms: Add the diced pumpkin and mushrooms to the pot. Stir well and cover to cook for 8-10 minutes until the pumpkin starts to soften.
7. Add water or broth: Pour in 4 cups of water or vegetable broth to your desired soup consistency. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
8. Season the soup: Add the crayfish powder, seasoning cubes, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
9. Add leafy vegetables: Gradually add the ugu, waterleaf, and bitterleaf leaves, stirring gently to combine. Cover and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the leaves are tender but still vibrant green.
10. Add cooked beans and palm kernel nuts: If using, stir in the cooked beans and palm kernel nuts, then simmer for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
11. Final taste check: Adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let the soup rest covered for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a truly authentic Nigerian vegetable soup, fresh ingredients and palm oil are key. However, you can customize the soup to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences.”

• Leafy greens substitution: If you can’t find ugu or waterleaf, spinach, kale, or collard greens make excellent alternatives.
• Make it vegan/vegetarian: Skip the crayfish powder and seasoning cubes or use vegetable broth and vegan-friendly seasoning powders.
• Protein options: Add cooked beans, cowpeas, or tofu for a protein boost. For non-vegetarian versions, you can include cooked fish or meat.
• Spice level: Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers depending on your heat preference. For mild, use just one pepper or substitute with a milder chili.
• Thicker soup: Mash some of the pumpkin or beans into the soup to create a thicker, stew-like texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian vegetable soup is traditionally served with starchy sides that help scoop up the delicious broth and vegetables. Some popular pairings include:

• Fufu: A soft dough made from cassava, yams, or plantains, perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Pounded yam: A classic Nigerian staple with a smooth, stretchy texture.
• Rice: Plain white rice or jollof rice complements the soup nicely.
• Garri: Granulated cassava flour soaked in water, a quick and easy option.

For a lighter meal, you can enjoy the soup on its own or with crusty bread. Pair it with refreshing beverages like zobo (hibiscus drink) or palm wine for a truly authentic experience.

Conclusion

Nigerian vegetable soup is a celebration of vibrant flavors, wholesome vegetables, and cultural heritage all in one bowl. This recipe offers a fantastic way to bring the taste of Nigeria into your kitchen, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner.

The balance of spices, leafy greens, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that’s both nourishing and comforting.

By using accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily make this soup a regular part of your meal rotation. It’s perfect for those who love exploring global cuisines or want a healthy, vegetable-packed meal option.

Don’t forget to explore other A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and discover more exciting dishes like the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to enhance your cooking skills.

For a wholesome grain accompaniment, check out Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

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