Edikang Ikong

This Nigerian vegetable soup recipe is a flavorsome blend of fresh greens, Vchunks, and aromatic spices. Enhanced by the richness of palm oil and the mild heat of Cameroon pepper, it's a delightful and nutritious dish to savor.

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Servings: 1
  • 2 bunches
    Fresh fluted pumpkin leaves (ugu)
  • 1 bunch
    Waterleaf Substitute with spinach if unavailable
  • 500 g
    Plant-based meat (Vchunks) chopped
  • 20 g
    Black fungus optional
  • 3 tbsps
    Tomato paste (homemade)
  • 2 tbsps
    Palm oil
  • 2 tbsps
    Ground mushroom
  • 2 tbsps
    Cameroon pepper (scotch bonnet or habanero)
  • 2 medium
    Carrot blended 
  • Salt Adjust to taste
  • Water
  • Red onion
  • Locust beans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fluted pumpkin leaves and waterleaf (or spinach) thoroughly. Chop them finely and set aside.

  2. Cook the Vchunks in a large pot with chopped onions, Cameroon pepper, and salt until tender. Add water as needed to make a flavorful broth.

  3. Heat the palm oil in a separate pot until it becomes clear (not cloudy). Be careful not to overheat it, which can make it lose its natural flavor.

  4. Add the ground mushroom, carrot, and locust beans (if using). Sauté for a few minutes until the flavors meld.

  5. Pour the cooked Vchunks and broth into the pot with the base sauce. Stir well to combine.

  6. Add the finely chopped fluted pumpkin leaves and waterleaf (or spinach) to the pot. Stir thoroughly, and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

  7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can also add more ground pepper for extra flavor and heat.

Notes

 Edikang Ikong soup is typically served with a side of fufu, pounded yam, or another Nigerian staple. Enjoy your delicious homemade Edikang Ikong soup!

About the author

Bola Adeyanju

Tags

Courses: Nigerian Meals, Soups
Cuisines: Nigerian
Keywords: Nigerian vegetable soup, Ugu and waterleaf soup
Difficulty: Level 2 (average)
Cooking time: 30-60 minutes
Season: General
Number ingredients: 10-15 ingredients
Taste: Savory, Spicy
Preparation method: Cooking
Type of dish: Soup
Campaigns: VeggieChallenge