Vegan Nigerian Okra Soup

Okra Soup is a popular West African dish that is both nutritious and delicious. It is made with fresh okra, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. This plant-based and vegan version of this traditional soup replaces meat or fish with mushrooms and incorporates flavorful seasonings to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. The slimy texture of the okra adds a unique element to the soup, while the combination of spices gives it a rich and aromatic taste.

Ingredients

Vegan Nigerian Okra Soup with Garri (Eba)

• 2 cups fresh okra, sliced

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 6 tomatoes, diced

• 1 bell pepper

• 1 habanero pepper

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 3 cups of kale

• 1 teaspoon of locust beans

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 1 teaspoon curry powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Vegetable oil for cooking

Directions

1. Heat some vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the locust beans to the oil and be careful to not allow them to burn.

2. Blend tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and habanero pepper together. Pour the blended mixture into the pot with oil, and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes are softened.

3. Blend chopped okra in the blender. You want the mixture to be coarse and not too smooth.

4. Add the paprika, thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to melt.

5. Pour the blended okra mixture into the pot and stir.

6. Add the chopped kale to the soup and allow it to steam for 1 minute.

7. Serve the vegan okra soup hot with your choice of side dish, such as fufu or rice