Nigerian Efo Riro Recipe , a popular Nigerian vegetable soup, is a rich, flavorful, and nutritious dish commonly enjoyed with fufu, rice, or yam. Made with leafy vegetables and a blend of aromatic ingredients, this hearty soup is a staple in Nigerian homes. Here’s an easy-to-follow Nigerian Efo Riro Recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
- Fresh spinach or fluted pumpkin leaves (ugu): 500 grams
- Palm oil: 1/2 cup
- Beef or assorted meat: 500 grams (pre-cooked)
- Smoked fish: 1-2 pieces (cleaned and deboned)
- Stockfish: 1 cup (soaked and softened)
- Ground crayfish: 2 tablespoons
- Tomatoes: 4 (blended or chopped)
- Red bell peppers (tatashe): 4 (blended)
- Scotch bonnet peppers (ata rodo): 2 (blended, adjust to taste)
- Onion: 1 large (blended and 1 chopped)
- Seasoning cubes: 2-3
- Salt: To taste
- Locust beans (iru): 2 tablespoons (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients:
- Wash and chop the spinach or fluted pumpkin leaves.
- Blend the tomatoes, red bell peppers, scotch bonnet, and one onion into a smooth mixture.
- Cook the meat and fish:
- Season the beef or assorted meat with salt, seasoning cubes, and chopped onion. Cook until tender and set aside, reserving the stock.
- Debone and clean the smoked fish and stockfish.
- Heat the palm oil:
- In a large pot, heat the palm oil on medium heat. Add the chopped onion and locust beans (iru), and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the blended mixture:
- Pour the blended tomato and pepper mixture into the pot. Stir well and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil floats to the top and the sauce is thickened.
- Incorporate the proteins:
- Add the cooked meat, smoked fish, and stockfish to the sauce. Mix thoroughly and cook for 5 minutes to allow the proteins to absorb the flavors.
- Season the sauce:
- Add the ground crayfish, seasoning cubes, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Add the vegetables:
- Gradually stir in the spinach or fluted pumpkin leaves. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are wilted but still vibrant.
- Simmer and serve:
- Allow the Efo Riro to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Efo Riro pairs wonderfully with:
- Pounded yam
- Eba
- Rice
- Amala
- Fufu
Tips for Perfect Efo Riro:
- Use a mix of meats and fish for a rich and authentic flavor.
- Do not overcook the vegetables to retain their nutrients and vibrant color.
- Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preference.
Enjoy this delicious Nigerian Efo Riro Recipe with your favorite sides and experience the bold flavors of Nigerian cuisine!
