How to Make the Perfect Egusi Soup
Nigerian · Easy · 50 min · 6 servings
This hearty Nigerian melon seed soup is packed with protein and vegetables making it a nutritious option for growing kids. It is a kid friendly recipe that pairs perfectly with soft fufu or rice for a filling family meal.
Why this recipe works
This Egusi Soup recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 18g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup ground egusi melon seeds
- 2 cups spinach leaves
- 3 tablespoons palm oil
- 1 whole medium onion chopped
- 2 cubes chicken bouillon
- 1 pound cooked chicken pieces
- 1 cup water
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Fry the Egusi
Heat palm oil in a pot over medium heat. Mix ground egusi with a little water to form a paste then drop spoonfuls into the oil and fry for 5 minutes stirring until golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Soup
Add chopped onion and cooked chicken to the pot. Crumble in bouillon cubes and pour in one cup of water. Stir everything together gently and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thick
Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes stirring occasionally until the egusi has fully cooked and the soup has thickened beautifully.
Step 4: Add Greens and Serve
Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook for 3 more minutes. Serve hot with rice or soft fufu for a complete kid friendly African dinner.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- palm oil → vegetable oil for a milder flavor kids may prefer
- spinach → kale or collard greens work equally well
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Adding too much water which makes the soup too thin and watery
- Not frying the egusi paste long enough which leaves a raw bitter taste
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 18g protein, 12g carbs, 28g fat, 4g fiber.
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