Discover how to make Ewedu Soup, a beloved Nigerian dish made from jute leaves, known for its unique slimy texture and rich flavor. Perfectly paired with fufu or amala, this nutritious and flavorful soup is a staple in West African cuisine. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create this classic meal at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 bunch of fresh jute leaves (Ewedu leaves)

- 1/4 cup ground crayfish

- 1/4 cup locust beans (iru), optional

- 2 tablespoons ground egusi (melon seeds), optional

- 1 tablespoon palm oil

- 1-2 teaspoons ground pepper (to taste)

- 1-2 seasoning cubes

- Salt to taste

- 4 cups water or chicken stock

Instructions:

Prepare the Jute Leaves: Wash the jute leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Remove the tough stems and finely chop the leaves.

Cook the Jute Leaves: In a large pot, add the chopped jute leaves and 4 cups of water or chicken stock. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until the leaves are tender and the soup has a slimy consistency.

Add Seasonings: Stir in the ground crayfish, locust beans (if using), and ground egusi (if using). Add the palm oil, ground pepper, seasoning cubes, and salt. Mix well to combine.

Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve: Serve hot with fufu or amala. Enjoy your Ewedu Soup as a hearty and traditional Nigerian meal.

Nutritional Values

Fresh Jute Leaves (Ewedu Leaves)

   - Calories: 25 kcal per 100 grams

   - Protein: 1.5 grams

   - Fat: 0.1 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 5 grams

   - Fiber: 1.5 grams

   - Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K

   - Minerals: Contains calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins, boosting immune health and supporting skin and eye health.

   - High in fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation.

   - Anti-inflammatory properties due to antioxidants.

   - Supports bone health with calcium and vitamin K.

Ground Crayfish

   - Calories: 80 kcal per 100 grams

   - Protein: 20 grams

   - Fat: 2 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Minerals: Rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium

Benefits:

   - High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

   - Rich in calcium, contributing to bone health.

   - Low in carbohydrates, suitable for low-carb diets.

Locust Beans (Iru) – Optional

   - Calories: 60 kcal per 100 grams

   - Protein: 7 grams

   - Fat: 1 gram

   - Carbohydrates: 13 grams

   - Fiber: 4 grams

   - Minerals: Contains calcium, iron, and magnesium

Benefits:

   - Rich in protein, aiding in tissue repair and muscle growth.

   - High in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and weight management.

   - Supports immune health with essential minerals and antioxidants.

Ground Egusi (Melon Seeds) – Optional

   - Calories: ~550 kcal per 100 grams

   - Protein: 30 grams

   - Fat: 50 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 10 grams

   - Fiber: 0 grams

   - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains vitamins A, B, E, and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc

Benefits:

   - High in protein, excellent for muscle growth and repair.

   - Rich in healthy fats, supporting heart health.

   - Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage.

Palm Oil

   - Calories: 120 kcal per tablespoon

   - Fat: 14 grams (mostly saturated fats)

   - Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A and E

Benefits:

   - Provides vitamins A and E, supporting vision, immune function, and skin health.

   - High in calories, useful for energy needs.

   - Contains tocotrienols, which are beneficial antioxidants.

Ground Pepper

   - Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon

   - Protein: 0.2 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 1.5 grams

   - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains vitamins A, C, and some minerals

Benefits:

   - Boosts metabolism due to capsaicin.

   - Rich in antioxidants, protecting the body from oxidative stress.

   - Supports digestion and improves appetite.

Seasoning Cubes

   - Calories: Varies by brand, typically ~10-20 kcal per cube

   - Sodium: High sodium content (can be around 200-400 mg per cube)

   - Other Nutrients: Minimal nutritional value

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor of dishes without adding extra calories.

   - Provides convenience for seasoning.

Salt

   - Calories: 0 kcal

   - Sodium: High sodium content (about 2,300 mg per teaspoon)

Benefits:

   - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

   - Enhances the flavor of food.

Water or Chicken Stock

Water:

   - Calories: 0 kcal, essential for hydration

  - Chicken Stock:

   - Varies depending on preparation, typically low in calories but high in sodium and may contain proteins and fats from chicken

Benefits:

   - Water is crucial for overall health and bodily functions.

   - Chicken stock adds flavor and nutrients to dishes, depending on how it’s made.