White Soup (Goat Meat) Recipe: A Traditional Nigerian Delight with a Luxurious Twist
White Soup, traditionally made with catfish, is a beloved dish in many Nigerian households, particularly in the South-East region. Known for its rich, comforting flavor, this soup is often enjoyed with a side of pounded yam or fufu. In this recipe, we elevate the classic White Soup by substituting the traditional catfish with goat meat, adding a more luxurious, tender, and flavorful protein to the dish. With the earthy taste of yam, the slight bitterness of utazi leaves, and the subtle spices, this White Soup with goat meat is an indulgent take on a staple meal.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy with its delicious depth and cultural significance.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Goat meat (cut into bite-sized pieces) | 1 kg | Tender cuts like the shoulder or ribs are ideal |
| Yam (peeled and cubed) | 500g | Used as a thickener for the soup |
| Utazi leaves (shredded) | 1-2 handfuls | Gives a unique bitter flavor, balance to the richness |
| Palm oil | 2 tbsp | Adds richness and depth to the broth |
| Onion (medium, chopped) | 1 | Aids in flavor development |
| Ground pepper (or fresh pepper) | 1 tbsp | Optional, for extra heat |
| Crayfish (ground) | 2 tbsp | Adds depth and umami flavor |
| Seasoning cubes | 2-3 | For seasoning and depth of flavor |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Water | 1-2 liters | To adjust the consistency of the soup |
| Ginger (fresh, chopped) | 1-inch piece | Optional, for extra warmth and fragrance |
| Garlic (fresh, chopped) | 2-3 cloves | Adds a subtle richness and aroma |
| Palm nut concentrate (optional) | 1-2 tbsp | For additional depth and authenticity |
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300-400 kcal |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 18-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25-30g |
| Fiber | 4-5g |
| Sodium | 400-500mg |
| Cholesterol | 70-80mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Goat Meat
Start by washing the goat meat thoroughly. Cut the goat meat into bite-sized pieces, ensuring there is some fat left on the meat for flavor and tenderness. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the goat meat. Season with one seasoning cube and a pinch of salt. Allow the meat to cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is tender.
Step 2: Preparing the Yam
While the goat meat is cooking, peel and cube the yam into small pieces. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil, add the yam, and cook until soft, which should take about 15-20 minutes. The yam will naturally break down to thicken the soup as it cooks, so don’t worry about mashing it. Once soft, mash the yam gently in the pot to release more starch, creating a thick, rich base for the soup.
Step 3: Cooking the Soup Base
Add the chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and ground crayfish to the pot with the goat meat. Stir well to combine the ingredients, allowing the flavors to infuse into the broth. Next, pour in 1-2 liters of water, depending on how thick or soupy you prefer your dish. Bring the mixture back to a boil.
Step 4: Adding the Yam
Once the goat meat is tender, add the mashed yam to the pot. Stir to incorporate the yam into the broth, which will start thickening the soup. At this point, adjust the consistency by adding more water if the soup is too thick. Allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the yam to fully meld with the broth.
Step 5: Seasoning the Soup
Now is the time to season the soup to your taste. Add the remaining seasoning cubes, salt, and pepper to the pot, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference. If you like a little heat, add ground pepper or fresh pepper. For a more authentic flavor, consider adding palm nut concentrate, which will enrich the soup with its distinct flavor.
Step 6: Adding Utazi Leaves
Once the soup has thickened and the flavors have melded together, add the shredded utazi leaves. These leaves lend a unique, slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the soup and cuts through the fattiness of the goat meat. Stir well and let the soup cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. The utazi leaves should remain bright and slightly crisp, preserving their freshness.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste the soup one last time to check for seasoning. If necessary, adjust the salt, pepper, and seasoning cubes. Once the soup is flavorful and perfectly seasoned, remove the pot from heat.
Step 8: Serving
Serve the White Soup (Goat Meat) hot, ideally with pounded yam, fufu, or garri on the side. The richness of the soup, combined with the tender goat meat and the slight bitterness of the utazi leaves, creates a memorable and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips
- Goat Meat: When choosing goat meat, opt for cuts that are well-marbled with fat for a tender and flavorful result. The slow cooking process helps render the fat and makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Utazi Leaves: If fresh utazi leaves are hard to find, you can substitute them with a small amount of dried leaves, though the flavor may be slightly different. Always add them at the end to preserve their fresh taste and texture.
- Consistency: White Soup can vary in consistency depending on personal preference. If you like your soup thinner, add more water during the cooking process. For a thicker soup, mash the yam more thoroughly or allow it to cook longer.
- Spice Level: The soup is generally mild, but feel free to adjust the level of heat by adding more fresh peppers or ground pepper to suit your taste.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This variation of the traditional White Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with a touch of creativity, can elevate a dish. By swapping out the usual catfish for goat meat, you add a luxurious protein that pairs beautifully with the creamy yam base and aromatic spices. The result is a rich, hearty soup that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, trying to impress guests, or simply looking for a new twist on a classic dish, this White Soup with goat meat is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Enjoy this delicious, nourishing, and culturally rich White Soup with Goat Meat. It’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends on any occasion.
