How to cook okra soup

Okra soup holds a special place in many west African’s heart.  A delight for the senses, this dish brings together a vibrant and aromatic essence. Here are some special secrets to creating the perfect Okra soup, exploring ingredients, techniques, and the cultural significance that makes it a cherished treasure. So, grab your apron and get ready to learn how to cook Okra soup.

What is Okra Soup?

Okra soup, also known as "okra soup" or "lady's fingers soup," is a popular dish in West African cuisine. It is a hearty and flavourful soup made from fresh or dried okra pods, which are known for their natural thickening properties. The key ingredients in okra soup typically include okra, meat (such as chicken, beef, goat, or seafood), and a variety of vegetables and seasonings.

Where Did Okra Soup Originate From?

Okra soup is believed to have originated in West Africa. It is a traditional dish that has been a part of West African cuisine for centuries. Okra, the key ingredient in this soup, is native to the region and has been cultivated and used in cooking for a very long time.

The origins of okra soup can be traced to various West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and others. Each of these regions has own variations of the soup, incorporating local ingredients and spices to create unique flavours.

Why is Okra Soup Slimy?

Okra soup is known for its natural sliminess due to the mucilage or gel-like substance contained within okra pods. The slimy texture is an inherent characteristic of okra, and it is one of the reasons why okra is often used as a thickening agent in various dishes, including soups and stews.

Okra contains a type of soluble fibre called mucilage. Mucilage is a thick, gel-like substance released when okra is sliced or chopped and comes into contact with moisture, such as water or cooking liquid. This mucilage is what gives okra soup its characteristic texture.

How Many Calories in Okra Soup?

A standard serving of okra soup (approximately 1 cup or 240 millilitres) typically contains around 50 to 100 calories. This estimate assumes a relatively basic recipe with okra, vegetables, and a modest amount of protein (e.g., chicken or fish) with minimal added fats or oils.

How Long Does it Take to Cook Okra Soup?

The cooking time for okra soup itself can vary based on factors such as the type of protein, the heat level, and the desired tenderness of the ingredients. In general, it can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 40 minutes for the soup to simmer and the flavours to meld.

Ingredients For Preparing Okra Soup400g fresh or frozen okra (about 14 ounces)

• 500g protein source (chicken, fish, or beef)
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes
• 1 medium-sized onion
• 2-3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 2-3 tablespoons of palm oil or vegetable oil
• 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• 1 tablespoon ground crayfish
• 2-3 bouillon cubes or seasoning powder
• Salt to taste
• Optional: leafy greens (e.g., spinach, kale) for added nutrition
• Optional: smoked fish or shrimp for extra flavour
• Optional: groundnut (peanut) paste for a nutty taste

How to Make Okra Soup 

• Wash the okra pods and remove the ends. Slice the okra into thin rounds or chop it finely. You can use a food processor for a smoother consistency.

• If you're using chicken or beef, wash and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season the protein with salt and your choice of spices (garlic, ginger, thyme). On the other hand, if you're using fish, season it with salt and let it marinate for a few minutes.

• Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the palm oil or vegetable oil in a pot. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add chopped tomatoes and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and combine well.

• Add Protein and Seasoning: If using chicken or beef, add it to the pot and stir until it's browned. Add the scotch bonnet peppers (chopped) for spiciness. Stir in ground crayfish and bouillon cubes or seasoning powder.

• Cook the Protein: Pour in enough water or stock to cover the protein, and let it simmer until the meat is tender.

• Incorporate the Okra: Once the meat is tender, add the chopped okra to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 5-10 minutes until the okra is softened and the soup thickens.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding salt, bouillon cubes, or spices as needed.

• Optional Additions If you're using leafy greens, smoked fish or shrimp, or groundnut paste, add them at this stage.

• Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavours meld.

What to Eat With Okra Soup 

Fufu: Fufu is a popular West African side dish made from starchy ingredients like cassava, yam, or plantains. It has a dough-like consistency and is often used as a scoop to enjoy the soup.

Eba (Garri): Eba, also known as garri, is made from fermented cassava and is another common accompaniment for okra soup. It is usually served in a rounded shape and can be dipped into the soup.

Pounded Yam: Pounded yam is a pounded and smooth yam dish that complements the soup's flavours. It is a traditional Nigerian side dish.

Amala: Amala is a Nigerian side dish made from yam, plantain, or cassava flour. It has a dark colour and is a great choice for savouring the soup.

Semolina: Semolina is a fine wheat flour that can be cooked into a porridge-like consistency and served with okra soup.

Rice: Steamed or boiled rice is a suitable option to serve with okra soup. It provides a contrasting texture to the soup.

Banku: Banku is a Ghanaian dish made from fermented corn and cassava dough. It is often shaped into balls and used to scoop up the soup.

k8

Where To Buy Okra

Most African supermarkets or grocery stores sell fresh okra in the produce section. Stores like our African Food Store sell quality Okro for you to purchase.