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Nigerian Pepper Soup

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Nigerian Pepper Soup is a spicy, aromatic broth made with meat or fish and infused with traditional African spices like uziza and ehuru. It’s a light yet bold dish enjoyed across Nigeria, loved for its rich flavor, warming heat, and soothing qualities.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs goat meat, beef, chicken, fish, or assorted meats (cleaned and cut into pieces)
  • 2 tbsp pepper soup spice mix (uziza seeds, ehuru, alligator pepper)
  • 2 scotch bonnet peppers or 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 seasoning cubes or 1 tsp bouillon powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 cups water
  • Scent leaves or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine meat or fish, chopped onions, garlic, ginger, seasoning cubes, and salt. Add enough water to cover and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer until the meat or fish becomes tender and flavorful.
  3. Stir in the pepper soup spice mix and scotch bonnet peppers. Continue simmering for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or chili if desired.
  5. Add chopped scent leaves or basil during the final 2–3 minutes of cooking.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs. Enjoy alone or with rice, yam, or plantains.

Notes

  • Use goat meat for the most traditional and flavorful version.
  • Adjust chili levels to control the heat.
  • For a richer broth, simmer longer to concentrate the flavors.
  • The spice mix can be homemade or store-bought from African markets.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/nigerian-pepper-soup-2/