Elevate your plant-based meal game with this Vegetarian Ewedu Soup, a vibrant twist on the classic Nigerian favorite! Made with fresh ewedu (jute) leaves, this recipe delivers a rich, earthy flavor and signature slimy texture enhanced by the addition of locust bean (iru), ground crayfish, and a dash of cayenne pepper for subtle heat. This quick and easy dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or pairing with traditional sides like amala, fufu, or rice. With its nutrient-packed ingredients and authentic West African taste, this vegan-friendly version of Ewedu Soup is a wholesome, satisfying option that will impress vegetarians and omnivores alike. Perfect for anyone seeking flavorful, healthy African recipes!
Rinse the ewedu leaves thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and debris.
In a medium-sized pot, bring 500 ml of water to a boil over medium heat.
Add 0.25 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to the boiling water.
Add the rinsed ewedu leaves to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
Using a whisk or a traditional broom whisk (ijabe), mash the leaves vigorously in the pot until they break down and create a slightly viscous texture.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of ground crayfish, 1 vegetable bouillon cube, and 1 tablespoon of locust bean (iru).
Add 0.5 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper and 0.5 teaspoon of salt to the pot, and stir well.
Let the soup continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot with your choice of sides like amala, fufu, or any African swallow of your choice.
Calories |
115 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.3 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 2528 mg | 110% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.0 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.0 g | ||
| Protein | 13.9 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 439 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1179 mg | 25% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.