Afang soup is a rich, nutritious, and flavorful delicacy popular among the Efik and Ibibio people of Southern Nigeria. This soup is a blend of finely sliced Afang (Okazi) leaves, waterleaf, and a variety of proteins, creating a thick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a Nigerian food lover or a curious foodie looking to try a new dish, this guide will help you prepare the perfect Afang soup in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Afang Soup
Vegetables:
✅ 2 cups of Afang (Okazi) leaves (finely pounded or blended)
✅ 4 cups of waterleaf (or spinach if unavailable)
Proteins:
✅ 500g goat meat, beef, or assorted meats
✅ 200g stockfish (optional but adds a deep flavor)
✅ 200g dry fish or smoked fish
✅ 1-2 cups of periwinkles (optional but traditional)
Other Ingredients:
✅ 2 tablespoons of ground crayfish
✅ 2 tablespoons of grounded dried pepper (or fresh pepper, chopped)
✅ 2-3 seasoning cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
✅ 1 medium-sized onion (for seasoning the meat)
✅ 1 cup of palm oil
✅ Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
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Wash the meat and stockfish thoroughly.
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Soak the dry fish in warm water for a few minutes to soften it, then debone.
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Rinse the periwinkles (if using) in salted water to remove sand.
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Slice the waterleaf finely and set aside.
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Grind or blend the Afang leaves into a slightly coarse texture. You can use a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
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Place the meat and stockfish in a pot, add chopped onions, seasoning cubes, and salt, and cook until tender.
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Add a little water to prevent burning but don’t make it too watery—the stock should be rich and concentrated.
Step 3: Add Palm Oil and Dry Ingredients
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Pour the palm oil into the pot and stir well.
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Add the ground crayfish, pepper, and dry fish, allowing the flavors to blend.
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Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat.
Step 4: Add Waterleaf
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Stir in the waterleaf and let it cook for 3-5 minutes. Waterleaf releases moisture, so you don’t need to add much water.
Step 5: Add Afang Leaves
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Finally, add the pounded/blended Afang leaves and stir well.
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Let the soup cook for another 5-7 minutes. Afang leaves are a bit tough, so they don’t soften completely but retain their distinct texture.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
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Add salt and seasoning cubes as needed.
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Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before turning off the heat.
Serving Afang Soup
Afang soup is best enjoyed with:
🍽 Pounded yam
🍽 Eba (garri)
🍽 Fufu
🍽 Semovita
It can also be eaten with rice or yam, depending on your preference.
Why You’ll Love Afang Soup
💚 Rich in nutrients – It contains vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the vegetables.
💚 Packed with protein – The meat, fish, and periwinkles make it a balanced meal.
💚 Delicious and flavorful – The combination of crayfish, palm oil, and spices makes it irresistible.
💚 Authentic Nigerian cuisine – A must-try dish that connects you to the Efik and Ibibio culinary traditions.
Final Thoughts
Afang soup is not just food—it’s a cultural experience in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or impressing your guests, this hearty and nutritious dish is sure to be a hit!
📌 Have you ever tried Afang soup? Let us know your experience in the comments!