Here's a simple and delicious okra soup recipe:
### Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh okra, sliced
- 1 pound chicken or beef (optional), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons palm oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Okra:**
- Wash and slice the okra into thin rounds. Set aside.
2. **Cook the Meat (if using):**
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken or beef pieces and brown them on all sides.
- Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
3. **Sauté Vegetables:**
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. **Add Tomatoes:**
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and become saucy, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Return the browned meat to the pot.
- Add the sliced okra, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir to combine everything well.
6. **Simmer:**
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the okra and meat are tender. Stir occasionally.
7. **Adjust Seasoning:**
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
8. **Serve:**
- Serve the okra soup hot. It pairs well with eba, Amala, fufu.
Enjoy your homemade okra soup!
