Ewedu Soup

Bursting with authentic Nigerian flavors, Ewedu Soup is a simple yet deeply nourishing delicacy that's a staple in Yoruba cuisine. Made from freshly blended jute leaves (ewedu), this velvety soup is enriched with earthy locust beans (iru), savory ground crayfish, and a touch of potash for its signature slimy texture. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and nutrient-packed dish is traditionally served with swallow varieties like amala, pounded yam, or fufu, making it a perfect accompaniment to hearty meals. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of tradition or exploring West African cuisine for the first time, Ewedu Soup's vibrant taste and health benefits won't disappoint.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams Ewedu leaves
• 500 milliliters Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Potash (Kaun, optional)
• 1 tablespoons Ground crayfish
• 1 tablespoons Locust beans (Iru)
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 cubes Seasoning cubes

Directions

Step 1

Thoroughly wash the ewedu leaves to remove any dirt or sand. If using fresh leaves, pick them from the stalks.

Step 2

Place the washed ewedu leaves into a blender with 250 milliliters of water. Blend until you achieve a rough texture. Alternatively, you can finely chop the leaves or use a local broom whisk (ijabe) to achieve a similar consistency.

Step 3

In a medium-sized pot, add the remaining 250 milliliters of water and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium heat.

Step 4

Carefully pour the blended ewedu into the pot of boiling water.

Step 5

Add the potash to the pot. Potash helps to soften the leaves and enhance the slimy texture, but it is optional. Ensure it is properly dissolved in the soup.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and stir continuously. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Add the ground crayfish, locust beans, salt, and seasoning cubes to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 8

Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 9

Once the ewedu has cooked through and reached your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat.

Step 10

Serve the ewedu soup hot alongside your choice of swallow, such as amala, pounded yam, or fufu.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	796.3 grams (796.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	161

Total Fat 3.70g	5%
Saturated Fat 0.60g	3%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 20mg	7%
Sodium 2239mg	97%
Total Carbohydrate 22.80g	8%
Dietary Fiber 6.60g	24%
Total Sugars 0.00g
Protein 19.20g	38%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 520mg	40%
Iron 8mg	43%
Potassium 1439mg	31%

*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: 16.5%

Protein: 38.2%

Carbs: 45.3%