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Egusi soup with chicken, rich spiced soup served with vegetables
Rich Egusi soup with chicken and vegetables

Nigerian Egusi Soup with Chicken

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Main Courses Soups
Egusi is not your average soup; it's more of a rich, nutty stew whose soul comes from ground melon seeds (egusi). These seeds act as a thickener, similar to flour, but are much tastier and nutritious. Red palm oil gives it that distinctive orange color and earthy flavor essential for the authentic experience.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 1 hr
⌛ Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 700 kcal
🌍 Cuisine West African (Nigerian)

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Mortar or Grinder (for seeds)
  • Large Pot

Instructions

1 ✓

Cut chicken into pieces, salt, and parboil in a little water until tender (approx 20 mins).

2 ✓

Mix ground egusi seeds with a little water to form a thick paste.

Tip: Making a paste helps the seeds curdle into lumps rather than dissolving completely.
3 ✓

Heat palm oil and sauté the onion. Add egusi paste and fry while stirring constantly until it starts to crumble.

Tip: This 'frying' brings out the nutty aroma of the seeds.
4 ✓

Pour in stock, add cooked chicken and chili. Simmer covered for 20-30 minutes.

Tip: It's ready when oil floats to the top. This indicates water has evaporated and flavors have concentrated.
5 ✓

Finally, toss in spinach and cook for 2 more minutes until wilted.

Tip: Add greens only at the end to preserve color and vitamins.

Recipe FAQ

What if I don't have egusi seeds?
Although the taste is different, ground pumpkin seeds (pepitas) can substitute for texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs or Breast
  • 1 1/2 cups Ground Egusi (Melon Seeds)
  • 3 tbsp Red Palm Oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 large Onion (chopped)
  • 4 cups Chicken Stock
  • 4 oz Spinach or Bitter Leaf (washed)
  • 1 tsp Chili Flakes
  • 1 tsp Salt