This aromatic Nigerian fish pepper soup is a beloved comfort food and traditional remedy across West Africa. Made with fresh tilapia, warming spices, and fragrant scent leaves, this clear, spicy broth is perfect for cold days, when feeling unwell, or as a light, nourishing meal.

Why This Recipe Works

Nigerian pepper soup is more than food, it is medicine. The combination of fresh fish, traditional spices, and herbs creates a deeply flavourful broth that’s believed to boost immunity, aid digestion, and provide natural healing properties.

Ingredients

• 500g fresh tilapia fish, whole or cut into thick pieces
• 1 large lemon, halved
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon pepper soup spice blend
• 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, mashed (adjust to taste)
• 2 Knorr bouillon cubes
• 150g fresh scent leaves (basil), chopped
• 1 tablespoon salt (for cleaning fish)
• 1.5 litres water
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Clean the Fish

1. Cut fish into 2-3 inch pieces and rinse until water runs clear.
2. Soak in salted water with lemon juice for 20 minutes.
3. Drain and rinse gently, then pat dry.

Step 2: Make the Soup

1. Bring 1.5 litres water to boil in a large pot.
2. Add fish pieces and bouillon cubes, simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onions, pepper soup spice, and mashed scotch bonnets.
4. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until fish is nearly cooked.
5. Add scent leaves and cook for 3-5 minutes more.
6. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

• Choose fresh fish: Eyes clear, flesh firm, oceanic smell
• Don’t overcook: Fish should flake easily but hold together
• Start mild with spice: Add heat gradually to taste
• Handle gently: Stir carefully to keep fish pieces intact
• Fresh herbs last: Add scent leaves at the end for best colour and flavour

Make Your Own Pepper Soup Spice

Mix: 2 tsp ground African pepper, 1 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp each of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with white rice, boiled yam, plantain, or Irish potatoes. Perfect as a light meal or warming starter.

Health Benefits

High in protein and omega-3s, naturally anti-inflammatory, aids digestion, and traditionally used to boost immunity and treat cold symptoms.

Storage

Best consumed fresh. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat gently, adding fresh scent leaves if needed.

UK Shopping Tips

Find pepper soup spice and scent leaves at African food shops. Substitute with fresh basil if scent leaves unavailable. Any firm white fish works if tilapia isn’t available.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Serves: 4-6 | Difficulty: Easy

This authentic Nigerian pepper soup brings traditional healing flavours to your kitchen, perfect for nourishing your body and soul!