How to Prepare Efo Riro (Vegetable Soup)

Keywords: Efo Riro recipe, Nigerian vegetable soup, traditional Yoruba dishes

Efo Riro, a rich and flavorful Nigerian vegetable soup, is a staple in Yoruba cuisine. Packed with vibrant colors, healthy ingredients, and a delicious taste, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Nigerian cooking or want to refine your technique, this guide will walk you through making an irresistible pot of Efo Riro.

Ingredients

To prepare Efo Riro, you’ll need the following:

• Fresh vegetables: Spinach (or substitute with Ugu or kale) – 500g

• Red bell peppers (Tatashe): 4 large

• Scotch bonnet peppers (Ata Rodo): 2-3 (adjust to your spice preference)

• Tomatoes: 2 medium (optional)

• Onions: 2 medium

• Palm oil: 1/4 cup

• Crayfish: 2 tablespoons (ground)

• Dried fish or smoked fish: 2 pieces (washed and deboned)

• Stockfish: Optional, soaked and cooked until soft

• Goat meat or assorted meat: 500g (pre-cooked)

• Seasoning cubes: 2

• Salt: To taste

• Locust beans (Iru): 2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash the vegetables: Thoroughly wash the spinach and chop it into medium-sized pieces. Set aside.

2. Blend the peppers: Blend the red bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers, tomatoes (optional), and one onion into a smooth paste.

3. Prepare the proteins: Pre-cook the goat meat or assorted meat with seasoning, salt, and onions. Ensure it’s tender and set aside with the stock.

Step 2: Cook the Pepper Base

1. Heat palm oil in a pot over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking.

2. Add the second onion, finely chopped, and sauté until translucent.

3. Stir in the locust beans (Iru) and let it release its aroma.

4. Pour in the blended pepper mix and fry for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oil should float to the top when the mixture is properly fried.

Step 3: Add the Proteins

1. Add the pre-cooked goat meat, stockfish, and dried fish to the pot.

2. Stir in the meat stock and let it simmer for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped spinach (or your chosen vegetable) to the pot.

2. Stir thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.

3. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes. Avoid overcooking to preserve the vegetables’ nutrients and vibrant color.

Step 5: Season to Taste

1. Add ground crayfish, seasoning cubes, and salt. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

2. Stir well and let the soup cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Efo Riro pairs perfectly with:

• Pounded yam

• Amala

• Eba (garri)

• Rice

Final Tips

• For an authentic Yoruba flavor, don’t skip the locust beans (Iru).

• Ensure the vegetables are not overcooked to retain their vibrant green color and nutrients.

• Customize the spice level based on your preference.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Efo Riro! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the taste of traditional Yoruba cuisine to your table.