How to Make Nigerian Groundnut Soup (Peanut Soup)

Groundnut Soup, also known as Peanut Soup, is a rich and flavorful dish loved in many parts of Nigeria. Made with ground peanuts and a variety of meats or fish, it is a comforting and hearty meal that pairs well with rice, fufu, or pounded yam. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious Nigerian delicacy.

Ingredients:

• 500g Groundnut (peanuts) – peeled and ground

• 1 lb (450g) of your preferred meat (beef, chicken, or goat meat) – cut into pieces

• 1/2 lb (225g) fish (optional) – dried fish or stockfish works best

• 1 onion – chopped

• 2 tablespoons palm oil

• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish

• 2-3 tablespoons ground pepper (fresh or dried)

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon ground garlic

• 2-3 seasoning cubes

• Salt to taste

• 4 cups of water or broth

• 2 tablespoons of ground melon seeds (Egusi, optional but gives extra thickness)

• Spinach or ugu leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Groundnut (Peanut) Paste

1. Roast the Groundnuts:

• If you’re starting with raw peanuts, roast them in a dry pan on medium heat until golden brown. Once cooled, blend the peanuts into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor.

2. Prepare the Soup Base:

• In a pot, add the chopped onions, ground crayfish, ginger, garlic, and pepper. Pour in about 4 cups of water or broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

1. Cook the Meat:

• In a separate pot, boil your choice of meat (beef, chicken, or goat meat) with salt, seasoning cubes, and water. Allow the meat to cook for about 20-30 minutes or until tender, depending on the type of meat you’re using.

2. Add the Fish (optional):

• If you’re adding fish (dried or stockfish), add it to the boiling meat and let it cook for another 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Peanut Paste and Palm Oil

1. Add Peanut Paste to the Pot:

• Slowly stir the ground peanut paste into the simmering broth. Add more water or broth to reach your desired soup consistency. Stir thoroughly to avoid lumps.

2. Add Palm Oil:

• Pour in the palm oil and mix it well with the peanut paste, allowing the oil to melt into the soup, creating that distinct golden color.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

1. Season the Soup:

• Add additional seasoning cubes, ground pepper, and salt to taste. Stir and cover the pot, letting the soup simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes to blend all the flavors.

2. Add Melon Seeds (Egusi):

• If you’re using melon seeds, mix them into the soup at this stage for extra thickness and flavor.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Final Adjustments

1. Add the Vegetables:

• Add fresh spinach or ugu leaves to the soup and cook for 5-10 minutes until the leaves are tender. This not only adds flavor but also gives the soup its signature green garnish.

2. Final Taste Check:

• Taste the soup for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or seasoning cubes as needed.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Nigerian Groundnut Soup with:

• Pounded Yam

• Fufu (Cassava or Plantain)

• Rice or Garri (Eba)

Conclusion:

Groundnut Soup is a staple in Nigerian cuisine that brings a delicious, nutty flavor combined with rich spices and tender meat or fish. It’s a hearty dish perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the flavors of Nigeria right from your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Bon appétit!