Are you looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and heat? Look no further! Okra soup is a staple in many African and Caribbean cuisines, and when you add a dash of spice to it, you get a truly comforting and soulful meal. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the globe, exploring 18 different spicy okra soup recipes that will warm your heart and your taste buds.
From classic Nigerian and Ghanaian recipes to innovative twists with goat meat, shrimp, and even vegan options, these soups are sure to spice up your mealtime routine. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting bowl or something light and refreshing, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, get ready to sweat, and let’s dive into the world of spicy okra soups!
Spicy Nigerian Okra Soup with Goat Meat
A flavorful and spicy soup that combines the richness of goat meat with the velvety texture of okra, this recipe is a staple in many Nigerian households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound goat meat (or beef), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra pods, sliced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the goat meat and cook until browned.
3. Add the okra, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Serve hot with fufu, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern-Style Okra and Tomato Soup
Experience the warmth of the South with this comforting soup that combines the tender goodness of okra with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh okra
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the okra, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creole Okra Soup with Shrimp and Andouille Sausage
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty and flavorful soup, featuring tender okra, succulent shrimp, and spicy Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb okra, chopped
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add okra and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in water and filé powder (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Vegan Okra Soup with Coconut Milk
A creamy and comforting soup that showcases the unique flavor of okra, blended with aromatic spices and nourishing coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped okra, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender and slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the okra has broken down into a creamy consistency.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ghanaian Okro Stew with Fish and Palm Oil
This hearty stew is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine, where okra (okro) is used to thicken the sauce and pair perfectly with tender fish and rich palm oil. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (any white fish works well), cut into small pieces
– 2 cups okro, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup palm oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the palm oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the fish and cook until opaque, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped okro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the tomato paste and water; stir well to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot over rice or with fufu.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Okra and Corn Soup with Chicken
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and spices, featuring tender chicken, crispy okra, and sweet corn in a spicy broth. It’s an ideal comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped fresh okra
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken, okra, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the okra starts to crisp.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in the corn kernels and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jamaican Okra Soup with Dumplings
This traditional Jamaican soup is a staple in many households, filled with the comforting flavors of okra, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. Our recipe combines tender okra, aromatic spices, and soft dumplings to create a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound okra, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Dumpling mixture (see below)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, celery, and ginger; cook until tender.
2. Add okra, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix dumpling ingredients with vegetable broth. Drop by spoonfuls into the soup; cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Okra and Seafood Soup with Crab and Shrimp
Okra and Seafood Soup with Crab and Shrimp: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight
This recipe combines the tender goodness of okra, succulent seafood, and a hint of spice to create a satisfying soup perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced okra, diced tomatoes, water, shrimp, crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Okra Soup with Bacon and Tomatoes
This smoky okra soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional okra soup, adding the richness of bacon and sweetness of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb okra, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the sliced okra, chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Stir in the cooked bacon and add optional heavy cream or half-and-half if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
West African Okra Soup with Beef and Peppers
West African Okra Soup with Beef and Peppers Recipe
This hearty soup from West Africa is a flavorful blend of tender beef, crunchy okra, and sweet peppers. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound beef cubes (any cut)
• 2 cups water
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, okra, bell peppers, ginger, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in the water, then bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Okra and Lentil Soup with Turmeric and Cumin
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, tender okra, and nutritious lentils. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent addition to your weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh okra, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. Add onion, garlic, okra, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Okra and Okazi Leaf Soup
Spicy Okra and Okazi Leaf Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a staple in West African cuisine, combining the earthy flavors of okra with the tangy taste of okazi leaves. This spicy and comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried okra
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped fresh okazi leaves (or substitute with spinach or kale)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried okra and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the okra and blend it into a smooth puree using an immersion blender or regular blender.
3. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the blended okra mixture, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the chopped okazi leaves (or substitute) to the pot, stirring gently.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Okra and Plantain Soup with Coconut Broth
This hearty soup combines the creamy texture of okra and plantains with the rich flavor of coconut broth, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 ripe plantains, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups coconut broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the okra and cook until it begins to thicken.
3. Add the plantains, coconut broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the plantains are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Okra Soup with Lamb and Lemon
Greek Okra Soup with Lamb and Lemon: A hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender lamb, okra, and bright lemon notes to create a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and okra; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Okra and Chickpea Soup with Harissa
This North African-inspired soup combines the creamy texture of okra with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all tied together with a spicy kick from harissa. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a hearty lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried okra
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup harissa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add okra, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until okra is tender.
4. Stir in harissa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caribbean Okra Soup with Callaloo
Caribbean Okra Soup with Callaloo: A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the creaminess of okra with the earthy sweetness of callaloo, a type of leafy green. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal to share with loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh okra, chopped
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup chopped callaloo (or substitute with collard greens)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, okra, callaloo, Scotch bonnet pepper (if using), curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Okra and Spinach Soup with Ginger and Garlic
Warm up on a chilly day with this nourishing and flavorful soup, packed with the benefits of okra, spinach, ginger, and garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped fresh okra
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the grated ginger and minced garlic in a little water until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped okra and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the vegetable broth, water, and spinach leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Okra and Prawn Soup with Lime
This vibrant and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of spicy and sour, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 pound prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add okra and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Add prawns and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of West African cuisine with these 18 spicy okra soup recipes that will transport you to a world of soulful comfort. From Nigerian goat meat to Ghanaian fish and palm oil, each recipe blends bold spices and fresh ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. Discover how different cultures have adapted this versatile vegetable into hearty stews and soups, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a satisfying meal any time of the year.
