Melon Magic: Unveiling the Irresistible Egusi Soup Recipe!

Hi everyone! Today I will be showing you guys how to prepare Melon soup, a Nigerian delicacy that is unique to the Igbo tribe.

Melon soup, also known as Egusi soup, is a popular Nigerian dish made with ground melon seeds and various spices. Here's a recipe for cooking melon pepper soup:

Ingredients:

2 cups melon seeds (egusi)

500g meat or fish (e.g., beef, chicken, or fish)

2 cups assorted vegetables (e.g., spinach, pumpkin leaves)

2 medium onions

3-4 tablespoons palm oil

2-3 tablespoons ground crayfish

2-3 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste)

2 seasoning cubes

Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the melon seeds:

Toast the melon seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until they start to release their natural oils. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

2. Grind the melon seeds:

Once cooled, grind the melon seeds in a blender or food processor until you have a fine powder. Set aside.

3. Prepare the meat or fish:

Wash the meat or fish thoroughly and place in a pot. Season with salt, sliced onions, and any other desired spices. Cook until tender. If using fish, remove it from the pot and set aside.

4. Prepare the vegetables:

Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

5. Blend the onions and peppers:

In a blender or food processor, blend one onion and the Scotch bonnet peppers until smooth. Set aside.

6. Cook the soup:

Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the remaining sliced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the blended onion and pepper mixture and fry for a few minutes.

7. Add the ground melon seeds:

Reduce the heat to low and add the ground melon seeds to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion and pepper mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Add the meat or fish stock:

Gradually add the meat or fish stock to the pot, stirring continuously. This helps to achieve the desired consistency. Add more water if necessary.

9. Season the soup:

Crumble the seasoning cubes into the pot and add the ground crayfish. Stir well and allow the soup to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

10. Add the meat or fish and vegetables:

If using meat, add it back to the pot at this stage. Stir in the assorted vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

11. Adjust the seasoning:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and any additional spices or seasonings if needed.

12. Serve:

Once the soup is ready, serve hot with your choice of accompaniments such as pounded yam, fufu, or rice.

Enjoy your Egusi soup! So yummy!