Ofe Nsala (Catfish White Soup)
Ofe Nsala is a traditional Nigerian dish known for its rich, comforting flavor and unique combination of catfish, yam, and utazi leaves. Originating from the southeastern part of Nigeria, this white soup is revered for its mild, yet flavorful broth that perfectly balances the earthiness of yam with the delicate taste of catfish. Ofe Nsala is also considered a healthy dish, packed with the nutrients of fresh fish and root vegetables, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal. Its spice level is mild, making it suitable for a wide range of palates, while its moderate price range makes it an accessible dish to prepare for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ofe Nsala (Catfish White Soup) Recipe
This Ofe Nsala recipe is perfect for those looking to explore Nigerian cuisine, especially lovers of traditional, hearty soups.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Catfish | 2-3 medium fish | Fresh or frozen catfish, cut into pieces, cleaned, and deboned |
| Yam | 2 medium tubers | Peeled and sliced (for thickening the soup) |
| Utazi leaves | 10-15 leaves | Fresh utazi leaves, shredded; adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor |
| Onions | 1 medium | Chopped, for adding flavor to the broth |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced, for extra depth in flavor |
| Ground crayfish | 2 tablespoons | Adds a rich, savory depth to the soup |
| Ground pepper | 1 tablespoon | To add heat and spice, depending on your preference |
| Seasoning cubes | 2 cubes | Used to enhance flavor and balance the broth |
| Palm oil | 1 tablespoon | Adds a slight richness to the broth, though not traditional in all recipes |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning |
| Water | 4-5 cups | For cooking and forming the soup base |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Potassium | 530mg |
| Vitamin A | 8% of RDI |
| Vitamin C | 12% of RDI |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Yam:
- Start by peeling and slicing the yams into medium-sized pieces. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are soft and easily mashable.
- Once cooked, drain the yam and set it aside to cool slightly. After it has cooled, use a mortar and pestle or potato masher to mash the yam into a smooth paste. This will act as a thickener for your soup.
-
Cook the Catfish:
- In a separate pot, add the catfish pieces. Pour enough water to cover the fish, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes until the fish is tender. Be cautious not to overcook the fish, as it can become tough and dry.
-
Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, add a tablespoon of palm oil (if you choose to use it) and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground crayfish and ground pepper, stirring well to release the flavors.
-
Add Yam and Simmer:
- Stir the mashed yam paste into the pot, along with the cooked catfish. Add 4-5 cups of water to achieve your desired soup consistency. The yam will naturally thicken the broth, so adjust the water based on whether you prefer a thicker or slightly thinner soup.
- Add seasoning cubes and salt to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes to fully combine all the flavors.
-
Finish with Utazi Leaves:
- Finally, add the shredded utazi leaves to the soup. This herb is typically added at the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and texture. Stir and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
-
Serve:
- Once the Ofe Nsala is ready, remove from heat and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with pounded yam, rice, or even fufu. Enjoy the rich, flavorful soup as a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Additional Notes:
- If you donβt have access to utazi leaves, you can substitute with spinach, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
- For a richer, more traditional version of Ofe Nsala, some people use a bit of dried fish or stockfish, which can be added along with the catfish.
- The yam is essential for thickening the soup, so try not to skip it, as it gives Ofe Nsala its signature texture.
This dish is a wonderful example of Nigerian cuisine, celebrating the simplicity of fresh, local ingredients combined to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether youβre preparing it for a special occasion or as a hearty weeknight dinner, Ofe Nsala is sure to become a beloved dish in your cooking repertoire.
