Vegetarian Edikaikang Soup

Discover the vibrant flavors of West Africa with this hearty and wholesome Vegetarian Edikaikang Soup, a plant-based twist on the traditional Nigerian classic. Bursting with nutrient-rich spinach and ugu (pumpkin) leaves, this soup is simmered in a fragrant blend of palm oil, tomatoes, red bell peppers, and aromatic spices, creating layers of bold, savory flavors. The addition of ground crayfish powder and optional habanero pepper lends a unique depth and a touch of heat to this one-pot wonder. Ready in just an hour, this vegetarian version of Edikaikang is perfect for cozy family meals and pairs beautifully with sides like fufu, pounded yam, or fluffy white rice. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this recipe is ideal for those seeking a taste of authentic African cuisine with a vegetarian spin.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams Spinach leaves
• 250 grams Ugu leaves (pumpkin leaves), chopped
• 60 ml Palm oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 3 pieces Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Red bell pepper, chopped
• 200 grams Tomatoes, chopped
• 500 ml Vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Ground crayfish powder
• 2 pieces Seasoning cubes
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 piece Fresh habanero pepper, chopped (optional)
• 250 ml Water

Directions

Step 1

Start by washing the spinach and ugu leaves thoroughly under running water. Chop them into small pieces and set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3

Add the chopped red bell pepper, chopped tomatoes, and optional chopped habanero pepper into the pot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.

Step 4

Introduce the vegetable broth and water into the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5

Once simmering, add the ground crayfish powder, seasoning cubes, salt, and ground black pepper to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.

Step 6

Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 7

After simmering, add the chopped spinach and ugu leaves to the pot. Stir well and let the soup cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the leaves wilt and become tender.

Step 8

Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 9

Once done, remove from heat and serve the Vegetarian Edikaikang Soup hot, accompanied with your choice of sides such as rice or a traditional African swallow like fufu or pounded yam.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1814.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	965.0

Total Fat 63.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 28.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5g
Cholesterol 21mg	0%
Sodium 5640.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.5g	0%
Total Sugars 26.6g
Protein 31.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 523.8mg	0%
Iron 14.3mg	0%
Potassium 3947.9mg	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: 55.1%

Protein: 12.2%

Carbs: 32.7%