Oha soup is a traditional Nigerian dish that is rich, flavorful, and often enjoyed with various accompaniments like fufu, pounded yam, or rice. It is typically made using oha leaves (also known as ora leaves), cocoyam (or achi) thickener, assorted meat, and various spices. Here’s a basic recipe for cooking oha soup:
Ingredients:
Assorted meat (beef, goat meat, tripe, etc.)
Stockfish and/or dried fish
Palm oil
Cocoyam or achi thickener (you can also use yam as a substitute)
Oha leaves
Ground crayfish
Pepper (fresh or ground)
Salt and seasoning cubes
Onion
Water
Instructions:
#1 Prepare the assorted meat: Wash and season the assorted meat with salt, seasoning cubes, and chopped onions. You can also add stockfish and dried fish to the mix. Cook the meat until it’s tender. You can use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process.
#2 Cook the cocoyam or achi thickener: If using cocoyam, peel and cook it until it’s soft. Mash the cocoyam to create a smooth paste. If using achi, mix it with a small amount of water to form a smooth paste.
#3 Prepare the palm oil: Heat palm oil in a separate pot until it becomes clear. Be careful not to overheat it or burn it.
#4 Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked assorted meat, stockfish, and dried fish to the pot of palm oil. Stir well to combine the flavors.
#5 Add water: Add enough water to create the desired soup consistency. Oha soup is typically not too thick or too watery.
#6 Add the cocoyam or achi thickener: Gradually add the cocoyam or achi paste to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the soup to thicken.
#7 Season the soup: Add ground crayfish, pepper, salt, and seasoning cubes to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
#8 Add the oha leaves: Wash the oha leaves thoroughly and tear them into small pieces. Add them to the pot of soup and gently stir. Be careful not to overcook the oha leaves, as they should retain their vibrant green color and fresh taste.
#9 Simmer and serve: Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once the oha leaves are wilted and tender, the soup is ready.
#10 Serve: Oha soup is traditionally served with fufu, pounded yam, or rice. Enjoy your delicious and hearty oha soup!
Note: The quantities of ingredients can be adjusted based on the number of servings you need. Also, oha leaves can sometimes be substituted with bitterleaf or spinach if oha leaves are not available.
Some Health Benefits of Eating Oha Soup:
It is a flavorful and nutritious dish that offers several potential health benefits:
Nutrient Rich: Oha leaves are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain vitamins like A, C, and E, which play important roles in maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting skin health, and acting as antioxidants that protect cells from damage.
Bone Health: Oha soup often includes ingredients like stockfish and cow tripe, which can provide minerals like calcium and phosphorus that contribute to strong bones and teeth.
Protein Source: Assorted meats used in oha soup, such as beef, goat meat, and others, are rich in protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health.
Fiber Content: Oha soup typically includes vegetables and other ingredients that contribute to its fiber content. Fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements, and preventing constipation.
Iron Intake: Some variations of oha soup might contain ingredients like cocoyam, which is a good source of dietary iron. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to cells and tissues in the body.
Healthy Fats: Oha soup often contains palm oil, which is a source of healthy fats. These fats are important for energy production, supporting cell membranes, and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Antioxidant Properties: The various ingredients in oha soup, including the vegetables and spices, provide antioxidants that help to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This can contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Cultural and Psychological Benefits: Beyond its nutritional value, traditional dishes like oha soup can provide cultural and psychological benefits. Sharing such meals with family and friends can enhance a sense of belonging and connection, promoting mental well-being.
Variety and Balance: Oha soup is often prepared with a mix of ingredients, which can contribute to a balanced diet. Including a variety of meats, vegetables, and seasonings ensures that you’re getting a range of nutrients.
It’s worth noting that while oha soup offers several health benefits, its overall impact on health also depends on factors such as portion sizes, cooking methods (such as the use of palm oil), and the overall dietary context. As with any dish, moderation and variety are key to enjoying its benefits while maintaining a well-rounded diet.