How To Make Okodo At Home_ Okodo, also known as Yam Pepper Soup, is a delicious Nigerian dish made with yam and a variety of spices. It’s warming, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare Okodo at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg goat meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium yam tuber (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 2 tablespoons pepper soup spice mix (available at African grocery stores or make your own with a blend of spices like calabash nutmeg, uziza seeds, and alligator pepper)
- 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (to taste), chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 seasoning cubes or 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups water
- Scent leaves (nchuanwu) or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat:
- Wash the goat meat thoroughly and place it in a large pot.
- Add Seasonings:
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, seasoning cubes or bouillon powder, and salt to the pot. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add the water to the pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
- Prepare the Yam:
- While the meat is cooking, peel the yam and cut it into chunks. Rinse the yam pieces and set aside.
- Add Yam and Spice Mix:
- Add the yam chunks to the pot with the meat. Stir well to combine.
- Add the pepper soup spice mix and chopped scotch bonnet peppers. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the spices.
- Simmer:
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the yam is cooked through and tender. The yam should be soft but not mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the soup is ready, garnish with chopped scent leaves or basil.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your Okodo as a flavorful and hearty meal.
Tips:
- Pepper Level: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet peppers to your heat preference.
- Pepper Soup Spice: If you prefer a homemade spice mix, blend equal parts of calabash nutmeg, uziza seeds, and alligator pepper.
- Yam Alternatives: If you can’t find yam, you can use sweet potatoes or plantains as a substitute.
Enjoy your homemade Okodo! It’s a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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