Vegan Bitterleaf Soup

Discover the rich and earthy flavors of Vegan Bitterleaf Soup, a plant-based twist on a beloved West African classic. This wholesome recipe features tender bitterleaf, delicately balanced with the sweetness of ripe plantains and the vibrant textures of okra and mushrooms. Infused with aromatic spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, and enriched with red palm oil for an authentic touch, this hearty soup delivers both depth and nourishment in every bite. Simmered in a savory vegetable broth with notes of garlic, ginger, and ground crayfish (a vegan substitute option can be used for a fully animal-free version), this dish is both comforting and nutrient-packed. Perfect as a standalone meal or served with your favorite side, Vegan Bitterleaf Soup is a show-stopping way to explore the essence of African-inspired, plant-based cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 200 grams bitterleaf
• 2 medium onions
• 3 medium tomatoes
• 2 medium bell peppers
• 4 cloves garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons red palm oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 150 grams mushrooms
• 1 large plantain
• 100 grams okra

Directions

Step 1

Begin by washing the bitterleaf thoroughly to remove its bitter taste. Rub the leaves between your palms in water several times, changing the water until it's slightly bitter to the taste.

Step 2

Chop onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger finely. Set aside.

Step 3

Slice the mushrooms and dice the plantain into small cubes. Trim the ends of okra and slice them thinly.

Step 4

In a large pot, heat the red palm oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent.

Step 5

Add the garlic and ginger, and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the ingredients to blend and the tomatoes to break down.

Step 7

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.

Step 8

Reduce the heat and add bitterleaf, mushrooms, plantain, and okra to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 9

Add in the ground crayfish and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 10

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the plantains and okra are tender.

Step 11

Once cooked, serve the soup hot. Enjoy with your favorite side or on its own.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2621.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1584.0

Total Fat 66.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 8.7g
Cholesterol 40.5mg	0%
Sodium 5429.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 221.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.3g	0%
Total Sugars 93.5g
Protein 48.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 674.0mg	0%
Iron 15.3mg	0%
Potassium 6638.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.8%

Protein: 11.4%

Carbs: 52.8%