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Nigerian Pepper Soup

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Nigerian Pepper Soup is a flavorful, spicy dish made with meat or fish and an aromatic mix of herbs and spices. Perfect for cold weather or as a comfort food, it’s customizable to suit your taste. Whether made with goat, beef, chicken, or fish, this spicy broth will leave you craving more. It’s a great dish for family gatherings or when you need a natural remedy for colds.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb of meat (goat, beef, or chicken) or fish (catfish or tilapia)
  • 23 scotch bonnet peppers (or to taste)
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 tablespoon ground crayfish (optional)
  • 23 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon pepper soup spice mix (or a blend of uziza seeds, calabash nutmeg, and alligator pepper)
  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 12 tablespoons ground pepper (preferably African pepper)
  • 12 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 45 cups water or broth

Instructions

  • Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the meat into pieces if using meat, or clean and cut the fish into portions. Blend the scotch bonnet peppers, onions, and garlic into a smooth paste.
  • Boil the Meat or Fish: In a large pot, add the meat or fish, water or broth, and cook on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
  • Add the Spices: Stir in the blended pepper mixture, crayfish (if using), pepper soup spice mix, thyme, and ground pepper. Mix well and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes.
  • Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes before removing from heat. Serve hot with rice, yam, or on its own.

Notes

  • You can make this dish with tilapia, catfish, or mackerel for a lighter option.
  • For a vegetarian version, add more vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or sweet potatoes instead of meat or fish.
  • Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper and ground pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Frozen fish or meat can be used, but ensure it is properly thawed before cooking.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.