Authentic Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup With Yam
Nigerian Pepper soup, or African pepper soup, is a light, hot soup prepared with varieties of meat/fish, herbs, spices, and spicy peppers. Today’s Nigerian pepper soup recipe is the crowd-pleasing Nigerian goat meat pepper soup with yam. It is meaty, tasty, satisfying, and packed with Nigerian aromatic flavors. Pepper soup is crazy hot, but finger-licking is good! You will never forget an authentic Nigerian pepper soup experience.
Easy Nigerian Pepper Soup Recipe.
Nigerian Pepper soup, or African pepper soup, is a light, hot soup prepared with varieties of meat/fish, herbs, spices, and spicy peppers. However, I am making my favorite Nigerian pepper soup recipe – goat meat pepper soup. Though pepper soup is enjoyed worldwide, it originated in the West African Region, hence the name African pepper soup. Most African countries have their own version, and today, I will make a Nigerian-style goat meat pepper soup with white yam. Yes, you heard me, LOL. I will add peeled and cut Nigerian yam tuber towards the end of the cooking process. This will make this pepper soup a complete meal! Alternatively, you can boil your white yam, store them separately, and then serve them with your pepper soup whenever you wish.
Pepper soup is crazy hot (I mean very, very spicy), but finger-licking good!! Usually made with a combination of hot spices and herbs that are beneficial to your health. This soup is ideal for cold weather; some of the spices and herbs used in preparing this soup contain antioxidants that are natural remedies for colds and flu! Additionally, pepper soup is naturally light and not meant for “swallow,” unlike okra or egusi soups. Pepper soup are best served hot with boiled white yams (I mean African yam tuber). See my fried yam, plantains and eggs if you enjoy African yam.
I’m sorry if you have never had an authentic Nigerian pepper soup. It is about to change. Listen, you will never forget an authentic Nigerian pepper soup experience. This plate of goat meat pepper soup with yam is everything! It is meaty, delightfully tasty, satisfying, and packed with the best Nigerian aromatic flavors. This is a Nigerian experience on a plate! And you are welcome!😊
What is Nigerian pepper soup spice made of?
An authentic Nigerian pepper soup spice combined and finely ground African calabash nutmeg (known as Ehuru in Igbo/Ibo language), grains of Selim (known as Uda in Igbo/Ibo language), grains of paradise, also known as alligator pepper, and other native spices. Instead of trying to gather all the herbs and spices individually, I recommend buying authentic, already-made Nigerian pepper soup spice from an African store near you or Amazon. Make sure to read the ingredient list, also, they are typically gluten-free and sodium-free.
Note that the flavor of the pepper soup spice is intended to make this dish super spicy and hot; it is always recommended to add it in small increments. You can always add more if needed. For instance, when making this recipe, i used about 2+ tablespoons. However, I started with just a tablespoon and then increased as I tasted it.
In reality, you are responsible for making your pepper soup as spicy as you want. Personally, I try not to make them as hot because my kids love to eat them with us sometimes. Also, this dish requires scotch bonnet peppers, which brings another hot/spicy component.
Why You Will Love Nigerian Goat Meat & Yam Pepper Soup!
- It is nutritious and packed with healthy herbs and spices.
- African pepper soup is perfect for new moms; authentic Nigerian pepper soup is one of those indigenous/traditional foods to prepare for new mothers! According to the Igbo/Ibo tradition, the herbs and spices in pepper soup help to heal a woman’s womb after childbirth.
- Adding yam (African yam tuber) to this pepper soup makes it more filling and a complete meal.
- Nigerian goat meat pepper soup is easy to cook and perfect for beginner cooks. If you are just starting to explore Nigerian cuisine, don’t be afraid of this dish, you can still get this result. Just follow the instructions outlined in the recipe card.
- This goat meat and yam pepper soup is super flavorful and tasty from the herbs, spices, and goat meat. This is a combination made in food heaven.
- You can easily keep this recipe low-carb and keto by excluding the yam.
- Pepper soup brings people together because it is a crowd-pleaser! It is hard to refuse a bowl of pepper soup. In those days, my father usually made goat meat pepper soup (his favorite and his specialty).
- Perfect for meal prep. I like making this recipe and then packing it away in freezer-friendly containers and into my freezer, especially during the cold season. This way, I have it whenever I need it.
Ingredients for Goat Meat – Yam Pepper Soup:
Typically the ingredients you choose will depend on what you want, for instance, the type of meat you want. However, for this pepper soup recipe, you will need the following things.
- Goat Meat
- African Yam (Nigerian Yam tuber); I suggest grabbing yours from an African store for freshness.
- Natural non-sodium Nigerian pepper soup spice
- Fresh scotch bonnet peppers
- Red bell peppers
- Onions
- Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning
- Dry crawfish
- Utazi leaves (Utazi is bitter and you need just a little bit)
- Basil leaves (this is optional but it replaces fresh scent leaves and will add some freshness to this recipe!
- Fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional; I used a tablespoon)
- Salt to taste
How to Make Authentic Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup.
Aside from the ultimate Nigerian pepper soup spice, which is an absolute MOST in any authentic Nigerian pepper soup, you will also need some vegetables like onions, bell pepper(s), and fresh bonnet peppers. It is important to remember that scotch bonnet peppers are extremely hot/spicy, and you can also substitute them with other spicy peppers such as jalapenos, etc.
- Gather your Ingredients
It is essential to ensure you have all your ingredients before making this recipe. Amazingly, this pepper soup recipe requires only a few ingredients!
- Wash, Cut, and Blend the Vegetables.
Wash and cut the bell pepper(s) and onion(s) and add them to your blender. Also, wash the scotch bonnet peppers and add to the blender. Finally, add the dry crawfish to the blender, add water, and blend until smooth.
- Wash and Clean the Goat Meat.
It is crucial that you wash and clean your goat meat properly. I recommend never cooking your goat meat from frozen. If you have frozen meat, thaw it and then wash it. Ensure your fresh goat meat is at room temperature before cooking your pepper soup. Then, place the meat in a clean, big pot ready to cook.
- Cook your Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup Starting with the Meat.
Pour all the blended ingredients on the goat meat, add the salt and the Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning, cover, and cook. As the goat meat boils, it will start to release some water. After 10 – 15 minutes, stir to ensure that all the ingredients are combined. Then cook on medium for the next 30 minutes.
- Prep the Yam.
Wash, peel, and cut your African yam tuber into sizeable chunks. Remember to keep the yams in cold water as you cut them so they do not change color. Wear gloves to cut/peel the yam to avoid discomfort/itching. It is best to prep your yam while the meat cooks.
- Add Pepper Soup Spice and Water.
After 30 minutes of cooking the meat on medium heat, you are ready for the next step. Grate in some fresh ginger and mix well. Then add water and the Nigerian spice and mix well to combine everything. If you are using oil, now is the time to add it (I added a tablespoon of olive oil). Stir everything again, cover the pot, and cook for another 35 – 45 minutes for infusion of flavors. Then taste for flavors and adjust as necessary.
- Add the Yam and Finish Cooking (optional).
This step only applies to you if you wish to add African yam tuber to your pepper soup, as I did. First, ensure that the goat meat is fully cooked and tender before you add the yams. Note that yams cook very quickly and will typically cook according to size. Drain the water from your yam and add them, stir, cover, and cook for 10-20 minutes until done. Add sliced/cut basil leaves, taste for flavors, and finish cooking.
Tips For Making The Best African Pepper Soup:
- Note that your cooking time may change, as it will largely depend on how big/small you cut the meat..
- The Pepper soup spice is typically very hot and spicy, but sure to add to your preference.
- If you plan to meal-prep your pepper soup, you may not need to add yam to it. I would rather suggest boiling your African yam tuber separately. Then, you can add the boiled yam and pepper soup to your freezer-friendly containers before freezing.
- Ensure to use a high-quality all-natural Nigerian pepper soup spice. It usually gluten-free and sodium-free.
How to Serve Nigerian Pepper Soup.
This goat meat pepper soup and yam (I mean African yam tuberI is a combo made in heaven! Nothing is better than yam pepper soup! Next time you make pepper soup serve it with some boiled white yam!
Pepper soup is usually served as an appetizer in most Nigerian restaurants and homes like mine (your girl is a pepper soup fancier, don’t judge). More people gravitate towards it during chilly weathers but in reality it is enjoyed all year round in Nigerian and beyond. In other words you can easily serve pepper soup by itself!
On the other hand, this pepper soup are perfect with Nigerian Agidi (corn flour jello) Another key point: this dish is best enjoyed while it a little hot or warm. Do not eat it cold, heat it up and get the best from those heartwarming spices.
Follow This Recipe Card To Make This Recipe:
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How to Make Authentic Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup with Yam
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 – 10 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Afrcian/Nigerian Cuisine
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Nigerian Pepper soup, or African pepper soup, is a light, hot soup prepared with varieties of meat/fish, herbs, spices, and spicy peppers. Today’s Nigerian pepper soup recipe is the crowd-pleasing Nigerian goat meat pepper soup with yam. It is meaty, tasty, satisfying, and packed with Nigerian aromatic flavors. Pepper soup is crazy hot, but finger-licking is good! You will never forget an authentic Nigerian pepper soup experience.
Ingredients
- 4– 5 LBS. (Fresh) Goat Meat
- 1 African Yam Tuber/Nigerian Yam tuber
- 2 TBS – 1/4cup Natural non-sodium Nigerian pepper soup spice
- 4 Fresh scotch bonnet peppers
- 1 Big Red bell pepper
- 1 Medium onion bulb
- 1 – 2 TBS Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning
- 1/4 cup whole Dry crawfish
- 1 TBS Dry or Fresh Utazi leaves (Utazi is bitter, and you need just a little bit)
- A handful of Basil leaves (this is optional)
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger or a thumb (optional but recommended)
- 1 TBS extra virgin olive oil (optional; I used a tablespoon)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather your Ingredients. It is essential to ensure you have all your ingredients before making this recipe. Amazingly, this pepper soup recipe requires only a few ingredients!
- Wash, Cut, and Blend the Vegetables. Wash and cut the bell pepper(s) and onion(s) and add them to your blender. Also, wash the scotch bonnet peppers and add to the blender. Finally, add the dry crawfish to the blender, add water, and blend until smooth.
- Wash and Clean the Goat Meat. It is crucial that you wash and clean your goat meat properly. I recommend never cooking your goat meat from frozen. If you have frozen meat, thaw it and then wash it. Ensure your fresh goat meat is at room temperature before cooking your pepper soup. Then, place the meat in a clean, big pot ready to cook.
- Cook your Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup, Starting with the Meat. Pour all the blended ingredients on the goat meat, add the salt and the Knorr Bouillon Chicken seasoning, cover, and cook. As the goat meat boils, it will start to release some water. After 10 – 15 minutes, stir to ensure that all the ingredients are combined. Then cook on medium for the next 30 minutes.
- Prep the Yam. Wash, peel, and cut your African yam tuber into sizeable chunks. Remember to keep the yams in cold water as you cut them so they do not change color. Wear gloves to cut/peel the yam to avoid discomfort/itching. It is best to prep your yam while the meat cooks.
- Add Pepper Soup Spice and Water. After 30 minutes of cooking the meat on medium heat, you are ready for the next step. Grate in some fresh ginger and mix well. Then add water and the Nigerian spice and mix well to combine everything. If you are using oil, now is the time to add it (I added a tablespoon of olive oil). Stir everything again, cover the pot, and cook for another 35 – 45 minutes for infusion of flavors. Then, taste for flavors and adjust as necessary.
- Add the Yam and Finish Cooking (optional). This step only applies to you if you wish to add African yam tuber to your pepper soup, as I did. First, ensure that the goat meat is fully cooked and tender before you add the yams. Note that yams cook very quickly and will typically cook according to size. Drain the water from your yam and add them, stir, cover, and cook for 10-20 minutes until done. Add sliced/cut basil leaves, taste for flavors, and finish cooking.
Notes
I used for this dish is a non-sodium spice that came directly from Nigeria. If you are using a salted pepper soup spice from an African store, Amazon or any other market place, then be mindful of the salt you will be adding, and or if you will even be needing salt at all.
Note that your cooking time may change, as it will largely depend on how big/small you cut the meat.
The Pepper soup spice is typically very hot and spicy, but sure to add to your preference.
If you plan to meal-prep your pepper soup, you may not need to add yam to it. I would rather suggest boiling your African yam tuber separately. Then, you can add the boiled yam and pepper soup to your freezer-friendly containers before freezing.
Ensure to use a high-quality all-natural Nigerian pepper soup spice. It usually gluten-free and sodium-free.
I used almost an entire yam tuber but feel free to use as much yam as you need.
Basil is optional; it replaces fresh scent leaves and will add some freshness to this recipe! Make sure to use fresh basil if you are using it.
Wondering where to get an African Yam Tuber? I suggest grabbing yours from an African store for freshness. Surprisingly you can also get African/Nigerian Yam Tubers from Amazon.
Do you eat pepper soup? If not, what is your favorite soup? Please tell me by leaving a comment below.
CHECK OUT OTHER NIGERIAN RECIPES:
Nigerian Soup Recipes:
Nigerian Rice Recipes:
- Flavorful and healthy Brown Rice Jollof recipe.
- The Tastiest Vegan Coconut Jollof Rice (video recipe)
- How to Boil Perfect White Rice.
More nigerian Recipes To Try:
- Healthy Plantain and Eggs Frittata.
- Nigerian Moi-moi Recipe.
- Easy Nigerian Red Tomato Stew (Video recipe)
- Beans Porridge: Stewed Black-eyed Peas Beans Recipe.
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THANKS FOR STOPPING BY! Stay well, safe and keep living your life to the fullest!
I have had goat meat from takeaways before, but never cooked it myself. This was delicious and so easy to make.
Glad to hear this, Dannii!! Thanks for your feedback!
This was delicious and so easy to make!
That’s wonderful, Sky. Thanks
This recipe reminded me how long it has been since I last made soup at home. Time to get cooking!
Hahaha, Mahy, I hear you. Hope you enjoy!
The flavors in this soup are absolutely incredible! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing recipes!
Awww, Thanks so much, Angela!
This soup was so incredibly delicious! Full of flavor and loved by my whole family!
Glad to hear that you guys enjoyed this recipe, Tayler! Thanks for your feedback!