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VEGAN EGUSI SOUP

Cuisine Nigerian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 4

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Egusi melon seeds, ground
  • 2 tablespoons palm oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium-sized eggplant cubed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup chopped spinach
  • 1 teaspoon ground crayfish optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper adjust according to your spice preference
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the pot and sauté until they soften.
  • Add the cubed eggplant and cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
  • In a blender or food processor, blend the ground Egusi seeds with a little water until it forms a smooth paste.
  • Add the Egusi paste to the pot and stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
  • Add the dried thyme, ground crayfish (if using), and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
  • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • After 30 minutes, add the chopped spinach and salt to taste. Stir well and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve the Egusi soup hot with your choice of accompaniment, such as rice, fufu, or pounded yam.

Notes

NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
Calories: 350 | Total Fat: 25g | Total Carbohydrates: 28g | Dietary Fiber: 10g | Protein: 12g