Nigerian pepper soup is a spicy, aromatic broth made with mixed meats and traditional spices. This comforting soup is perfect for cold days and is believed to have healing properties.

Ingredients

Meat

• 1kg assorted meat mix (goat meat, beef, cow leg, kidney, liver, heart)
• 200g ponmo (cow skin), optional
• 2 litres water

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tbsp pepper soup spice mix (or make your own)
• 2-3 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• 3-4 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves or scent leaves, chopped
• 1 spring onion, chopped (optional)

How to Make Your Own Pepper Soup Spice Mix

If you can’t find ready-made pepper soup spice, blend together:

• 1 tbsp dried ginger
• 1 tbsp dried garlic
• 1 tsp calabash nutmeg
• 1 tsp African pepper (uda)
• 1 tsp cloves
• 1 tsp ehuru seeds

How to Make Pepper Soup

Prepare the Meat

1. Clean the meat: Wash all meats thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Cut to size: Cut larger pieces into bite-sized chunks. Leave smaller organs whole.
3. Season: Rub meat with salt and leave for 10 minutes.

Cook the Soup

1. Boil the meat: Place meat in a large pot with chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and stock cubes. Add enough water to cover the meat completely.
2. Cook until tender: Bring to the boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until meat is tender. Add more water if needed.
3. Add seasonings: Add pepper soup spice mix, turmeric, chopped scotch bonnets, and extra water to make a soup consistency.
4. Season to taste: Add salt and extra stock cubes if needed. The soup should be well-seasoned and spicy.
5. Simmer: Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow flavours to blend.
6. Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning. The soup should be hot and flavourful.

Serve

1. Garnish: Just before serving, add chopped basil or scent leaves and spring onions.
2. Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and serve immediately whilst hot.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian pepper soup is traditionally enjoyed:

• On its own as a light meal
• With boiled yam or plantain
• With white rice
• As a starter before the main meal
• When feeling unwell (it’s considered medicinal)

Tips for Perfect Pepper Soup

• Buy quality meat: Get fresh assorted meat from African or halal butchers for authentic flavour
• Don’t overcook organs: Add liver and kidney later as they cook faster than other meats
• Adjust spice level: Start with less pepper and add more to taste
• Use fresh herbs: Add basil or scent leaves just before serving to keep them fresh
• Make it ahead: Pepper soup tastes better the next day as flavours develop

Storage

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently before serving
• Add fresh herbs when reheating

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people

Health Benefits

Nigerian pepper soup is known for its warming properties and is often consumed when feeling under the weather. The spices aid digestion and the hot broth helps with congestion.