Vegetable soup with Ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves) and Waterleaf is a nutritious and delicious Nigerian delicacy packed with flavors and healthy greens. If you want to enjoy the wholesome goodness of this soup, follow these 15 easy steps to prepare it in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- 500g of assorted meats (beef, chicken, or goat meat)
- 1 cup of dried fish or smoked fish (pre-soak in warm water to soften)
- 2 cups of chopped Ugu leaves
- 2 cups of chopped Waterleaf
- 1 cup of chopped spinach or any other leafy green of your choice
- 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
- 3-4 tablespoons of palm oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of ground crayfish
- 2-3 tablespoons of ground pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 seasoning cubes
- Salt to taste
- 6 cups of water or meat broth
Step 2: Prepare the Assorted Meats
Thoroughly wash the assorted meats and season them with salt and one seasoning cube. You can use your preferred combination of meats or stick to one type. Set the seasoned meats aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 3: Pre-soak the Dried Fish
If you are using dried fish or smoked fish, pre-soak it in warm water to soften it. This will make it easier to incorporate into the soup.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the Ugu leaves, Waterleaf, and spinach (or any other leafy green you are using) thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Chop the vegetables and set them aside.
Step 5: Cook the Assorted Meats
In a pot, add the chopped onions and a little water. Add the seasoned meats and cook until they are tender and well-cooked. You may need to add more water as needed during the cooking process.
Step 6: Add the Palm Oil
Once the meats are cooked, add the palm oil to the pot. Stir well to combine the oil with the meat stock.
Step 7: Add the Dried Fish
Now, add the pre-soaked dried fish or smoked fish to the pot. Stir gently to mix the fish with the meats and palm oil.
Step 8: Add the Ground Crayfish and Pepper
Next, add the ground crayfish and ground pepper to the pot. Stir to ensure the spices are well incorporated into the soup.
Step 9: Add Water or Broth
Pour the water or meat broth into the pot with the meats and spices. Stir to create a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 10: Bring to a Boil
Place the pot on medium heat and bring the soup to a boil. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 11: Add the Chopped Ugu Leaves
Once the soup has simmered for a while, add the chopped Ugu leaves. Stir well and let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 12: Add the Chopped Waterleaf
Now, add the chopped Waterleaf to the pot. Stir gently to mix the Waterleaf with the rest of the soup.
Step 13: Add Seasoning and Salt
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning and salt according to your preference. Add more seasoning cubes, ground crayfish, or salt if needed.
Step 14: Add the Chopped Spinach
Finally, add the chopped spinach or any other leafy green you are using to the pot. Stir well and let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
Step 15: Serve and Enjoy
Your delicious Vegetable Soup with Ugu and Waterleaf is now ready to be served! Enjoy it with a side of rice, fufu, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
Conclusion
Cooking Vegetable Soup with Ugu and Waterleaf is a delightful and straightforward process that results in a nutritious and flavorful dish. With these 15 easy steps, you can create a wholesome and delicious soup that your family and friends will love. So, get ready to savor the goodness of this Nigerian delicacy and relish in the delightful flavors of fresh vegetables in every spoonful.
