How to make Afang Soup: A Nutritious Nigerian Classic That Nourishes the Body and Soul

🌿 There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of Afang Soup bubbling on the stove.

If you’ve ever tasted this rich, flavorful dish, you already know — Afang Soup isn’t just food, it’s home.

This beloved Nigerian delicacy from the Efik and Ibibio people (my tribe!) is more than just a cultural staple — it’s a bowl of warmth, tradition, and nutrition all in one.

Whether you’re new to African cuisine or rediscovering your roots, here’s everything you need to enjoy Afang Soup — with grace and gusto.

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🧄 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

🥬 Vegetables:

• 2 cups Afang leaves (okazi), finely shredded
• 3 cups waterleaf (or substitute with spinach if unavailable)

🍖 Proteins:

• 500g goat meat (or beef)
• 300g stockfish (pre-soaked)
• 200g smoked fish
• Optional: 1 cup periwinkles (cleaned)

🌰 Other Ingredients:

• 1 cup ground crayfish
• 2 tbsp ground pepper (adjust to taste)
• 3 cooking spoons of palm oil
• 1–2 seasoning cubes
• Salt to taste
• 1 small onion (optional, for boiling meat)

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👩🏽‍🍳 Cooking Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Leaves

• Wash and finely shred the afang (okazi) leaves.
• Wash the waterleaf thoroughly and chop into smaller bits. Set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Proteins

• In a pot, season goat meat and stockfish with salt, seasoning cube, and chopped onions. Add a bit of water and boil until tender.
• Add smoked fish and periwinkle if using, and cook for another 5–7 minutes.

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Step 3: Add Waterleaf

• Stir in the chopped waterleaf and allow to simmer. Waterleaf releases natural liquid, which helps blend the soup — no need to add too much water.

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Step 4: Pour in Palm Oil + Crayfish + Pepper

• Add palm oil, crayfish, and pepper. Stir and let it cook for 5–10 minutes until the oil blends and aroma rises.

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Step 5: Add Afang (Okazi) Leaves

• Finally, add the shredded afang leaves. Stir thoroughly. Let simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Cook until leaves soften slightly but still retain their texture.

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🥣 Serve With:

• Fufu, pounded yam, garri, or wheat
• Or eat as a nourishing soup on its own!

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🌱 Health Benefits of Afang Soup

• Rich in fiber: Okazi and waterleaf aid digestion and support gut health.
• Packed with protein: Especially with goat meat, stockfish, and periwinkle — great for muscle repair and energy.
• Boosts immunity: Crayfish and leafy greens are filled with essential nutrients and antioxidants.
• Healthy fats: Palm oil in moderation offers vitamin A and energy.

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🙏🏾 Why I Love This Soup

For me, Afang Soup is more than food — it’s a taste of culture, a memory of home, and a nourishing meal that fills both the belly and the soul.

If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you — make a pot, invite a friend, and savor the experience.

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📣 Let’s Talk:

Have you ever made Afang Soup? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Let me know in the comments or tag @TheBeoLifestyle if you cook this recipe!

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With flavor and love,
Blessing
Founder, TheBeoLifestyle