Ugba soup, also known as Ukwa soup, is a traditional Nigerian dish made from African breadfruit (ukwa) seeds. It is a delicious and nutritious soup that is commonly enjoyed in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Follow these 5 easy steps to prepare a mouthwatering pot of Ugba Soup:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- 2 cups ukwa (African breadfruit) seeds
- Assorted meats (such as beef, goat meat, or chicken) – about 1 lb
- Stockfish and dry fish (optional) – soaked in water to soften
- 1 cup ugba (ukpaka or oil bean)
- 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
- 2 tablespoons ground pepper (cayenne pepper or any hot pepper of your choice)
- 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
- Palm oil – 1/2 cup
- 2 stock cubes (seasoning cubes)
- Salt to taste
Step 2: Prepare the Ukwa (African Breadfruit) Seeds
Thoroughly wash the ukwa (African breadfruit) seeds in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. In a large pot, add the washed ukwa seeds and enough water to cover them. Bring the pot to a boil and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to soften the seeds. Drain the water and rinse the seeds again.
Step 3: Cook the Assorted Meats
In a separate pot, add the assorted meats and enough water to cover them. Season with chopped onions, stock cubes, and salt. Cook the meats over medium heat until they are tender. If using stockfish and dry fish, add them to the pot along with the meats.
Step 4: Add Palm Oil and Spices
Once the meats are tender, add the palm oil to the pot and stir well. Allow the palm oil to dissolve into the soup. Then, add the ground crayfish and ground pepper. Stir the ingredients together to infuse the soup with rich flavors.
Step 5: Add Ukwa and Ugba (Ukpaka)
Add the cooked ukwa (African breadfruit) seeds to the pot with the assorted meats and spices. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, add the ugba (ukpaka or oil bean) to the pot. Ugba is a special ingredient that adds a unique flavor and texture to the soup.
Let the Ugba Soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional spices, if needed, to suit your preference.
Conclusion
Cooking Ugba Soup is a simple and delightful process that results in a hearty and flavorful dish. With these 5 easy steps, you can savor the authentic taste of Nigerian cuisine right in your home. Serve the Ugba Soup with your favorite side dishes, such as fufu, rice, or plantains, for a complete and satisfying meal. So, get ready to indulge in the rich and nutritious flavors of Ugba Soup with family and friends!
