Authentic Afang Soup: A Traditional Nigerian Delicacy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Afang leaves (Okazi leaves)
  • 1 cup of water leaves
  • 1/2 kg of assorted meat
  • 1/2 cup of palm oil
  • 1 cup of Periwinkles
  • 1/2 cup of ground crayfish
  • 1 medium sized onion
  • 2 seasoning cubes
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper
  • 2 cups of stockfish
  • 3 cups of water
  • 1 dried fish

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by washing and boiling the assorted meat with diced onions, seasoning cubes and a pinch of salt. Cook until it's tender and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and stir until they become translucent.
  3. Add the cooked meat and stockfish to the pot, stir and let it simmer for a few minutes.
  4. Then, add the periwinkles, dried fish, ground crayfish, and scotch bonnet pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so that the flavours can blend together.
  5. Rinse the water leaves, chop them up and add to the pot. Stir and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
  6. Blend the Afang leaves until they are finely chopped and add them into the pot. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
  7. Add about 3 cups of water and salt to taste. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning at the bottom of the pot.
  8. Check the consistency of the soup, if it's too thick add a little more water. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
  9. Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your Afang soup is ready to be served!

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the assorted meat with chicken or beef for a different flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or tofu.
  • Add some smoked fish or shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Include some chopped bell peppers or carrots for added color and texture.
  • Experiment with other leafy greens like spinach or kale instead of water leaves.
  • Replace palm oil with a healthier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
  • Add some coconut milk for a creamy and rich variation.
  • Include some traditional Nigerian spices like uziza leaves or ogiri (locust bean) for an authentic taste.
  • For a thicker consistency, add some pounded yam or plantain to the soup.

Recipe overview

Afang Soup, also known as Okazi soup, is a delicious traditional Nigerian soup hailing from the southern part of the country. This soup is packed with assorted meat, fish, and greens, making it both tasty and nutritional. The highlight of the soup is the Afang (or Okazi) leaves, which give it a unique flavor and texture. Our recipe also includes water leaves, but some variations use spinach or other green vegetables as a substitute. This hearty, rich soup is often served over fufu, eba or pounded yam, but it can also be enjoyed as a standalone dish. It's perfect for a family dinner, special occasions or even just a casual meal. In this recipe, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing Afang soup. The cooking process involves two main stages: preparing the assorted meat and fish, and making the soup base. While the list of ingredients might seem long, don't be daunted! The result is worth every effort. So, let's dive into the wonderful world of Nigerian cuisine and make some Afang soup!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen Afang leaves? Yes, you can use frozen Afang leaves as a substitute for fresh leaves. Just make sure to thaw them before using and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! You can use any type of meat or even seafood like shrimp or crab in your Afang soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
  3. Can I substitute water leaves? If you can't find water leaves, you can use spinach or kale as a substitute. Just be aware that the taste and texture may be slightly different.
  4. Can I omit the palm oil? While palm oil adds a distinct flavor to Afang soup, you can substitute it with vegetable oil if desired. However, the traditional recipe calls for palm oil.
  5. Can I make Afang soup vegetarian/vegan? Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of Afang soup by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of meat stock. You can also add tofu or plant-based protein alternatives.
  6. How spicy is Afang soup? Afang soup can be as spicy as you want it to be. Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your preference for spiciness.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A large pot is essential for cooking the Afang soup and accommodating all the ingredients.
  • Blender - A blender will be needed to finely chop the Afang leaves for the soup.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the onions and other ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is needed for chopping the onions, meat, and other ingredients.
  • Cooking Spoon - A cooking spoon is required for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring Cups - Measuring cups are useful for accurately measuring the required amounts of water and palm oil.
  • Stock Pot - A stock pot is necessary for boiling the assorted meat and stockfish.
  • Sieve - A sieve is needed for rinsing the water leaves before adding them to the soup.
  • Tasting Spoon - A tasting spoon is handy for checking the seasoning and adjusting the taste of the soup.
  • Serving Bowls - Serving bowls are essential for serving the delicious Afang soup.

Origin stories

Afang soup, a delightful and aromatic delicacy from Nigeria, is deeply rooted in the culinary heritage of the Efik people from the southeastern parts of the country. The soup gets its name from the Afang leaves (locally known as 'Okazi'), a key ingredient in the recipe. This leafy green vegetable has been used as a medicinal plant in traditional African medicine for centuries, and it is known for its high nutritional value. It's not just the taste that makes Afang soup stand out, but also its cultural significance. Traditionally, Afang soup is often served at important events and celebrations, a testament to its royal status in the Efik culinary repertoire. It is said that serving Afang soup is seen as a sign of good hospitality in Efik culture, and it's often used to welcome special guests.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.