By Mistura Adeyemi
Ogbono seeds are also known as the bush mango seeds while the botanical name is Irvingia gabonensis. These seeds are also called wild African mango, the Igbos call it Ogbono while it is called Apon by the Yorubas. Ogbono soup is a popular Nigerian delicacy enjoyed across the country.
It falls into the category of ‘draw soup’ because of it’s slippery and slimy texture.
Recipe Ingredients
1. Meat
2. Smoked fish
3. Ogbono
4. Crayfish
5. Palm oil
6. Spinach (optional)
7. Meat stock
8. Salt
9. Seasoning cube
10. Dry pepper
Preparation
1. Cook the meat
2. chop the spinach and set them aside.
3. grind the ogbono seed. You can also buy them pre-ground and prepackaged, which might make Preparation faster.
4. Heat up palm oil in an empty pot for 30 secs and Add pepper. Stir fry for 2 minutes.
5. Turn down the heat from the burner and add the ogbono. Stir on very low heat for 30 secs.
6. Add the stock or water, one cup at a time, and stir until it begins to thicken and the texture becomes somewhat viscous (or begins to ‘draw,’ as we say in Nigeria).
7. Once you reach your desired thickness, bring it to a boil, then set it to low heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring intermittently.
8. Add in all the spices and pre-cooked meats. If it becomes too thick, add a little more water. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and simmer on low for about two more minutes.
9. Serve ogbono soup with your favorite swallow, and enjoy!