Catfish pepper soup is a popular and common recipe in Nigeria. This spicy and soupy concoction is best enjoyed on cold or rainy days, creating a leisurely culinary experience. It is a simple and easy-to-follow delicacy. Let’s dive into the details of how it’s made.
How to Make Catfish Pepper Soup
Equipment Needed
Large pot – Available on Amazon and Jumia
Chopping board – Available on Amazon and Jumia
Knife – Available on Amazon and Jumia
Grater – Available on Amazon and Jumia
Turning spoon – Available on Jumia
Bowl – Available on Amazon and Jumia
Ingredients
2-3 catfish
Red bell pepper
Onion (chopped)
Seasoning cubes
Salt to taste
Curry and thyme
2-3 cups of water
Lime juice
½ cup of vegetable oil
Scent leaves (optional)
Procedure for Making Catfish Pepper Soup
STEP 1: Place the catfish in a bowl and pour hot water over it. Let it soak for 4-6 minutes. Use both hands to scrub the fish and remove the slime thoroughly.
STEP 2: Drain the water and rinse the catfish with fresh water containing lime juice.
STEP 3: Cut the catfish into desired shapes or sizes and set aside.
STEP 4: Wash the red bell pepper and onions, then grate them. Set aside.
STEP 5: Heat the vegetable oil in a clean pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and fry for 2-3 minutes.
STEP 6: Add the grated pepper to the pot and stir until well fried.
STEP 7: Add the catfish to the pot and pour in enough water. Add the chopped onion, stir well, and allow the soup to simmer for a few minutes.
STEP 8: Add the seasoning cubes, curry, thyme, and salt to taste. Stir gently, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
STEP 9: When the catfish is done, turn off the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
STEP 10: Your catfish pepper soup is ready!
How to Serve Catfish Pepper Soup
This delicious delicacy can be served alone or with boiled yam, plantain, white rice, or any bread of your choice. It also pairs well with Tuwon Shinkafa. Enjoy it with water or any soft drink of your choice.
Occasions to Serve Catfish Pepper Soup
Although it can be a bit expensive, catfish pepper soup is an ideal meal for serving highly distinguished guests on special occasions such as ceremonies, traditional gatherings, and festivals. It is also a perfect choice for gatherings of any kind. Additionally, it is a delightful dish enjoyed best during cold or wet weather, either alone or with a loved one.
How to Store Catfish Pepper Soup
Ideally, it is recommended to consume the soup immediately after cooking for the best taste. Alternatively, you can store it in the freezer. Use an airtight bag and label it with the date of storage to keep track of how long it has been frozen. Before consuming, thaw the soup and reheat it using a microwave. Do not consume it while it is cold.
Nutritional Value of Catfish Pepper Soup
Catfish pepper soup is rich in vitamin B12, which is essential for the development of red blood cells, brain health, and DNA synthesis. The high protein content in the soup aids in building and preserving lean muscle mass. Additionally, catfish has low mercury contamination, making it a healthier choice.
The health benefits are numerous. Feel free to check them.
Conclusion
Catfish pepper soup involves simmering catfish in a flavorful mixture of spices and peppers. Another method involves boiling catfish in a seasoned broth with various seasonings such as dried pepper, thyme, onions, garlic, ginger, and scotch bonnet peppers. The result is a spicy soup with a deep and powerful flavor. We hope you find this article helpful. If you have any comments or questions, please leave them in the comments section below.
You are always welcome to Northpad Nigeria for more mouthwatering delicacies.