Grandmas Spicy Chicken Pepper Soup West African Inspired
Recipe Introduction: Grandma's Spicy Chicken Pepper Soup (West African Inspired)
Fancy a bit of spice in your life? Then listen up! Ever had that chicken soup that just warms you from the inside out? Well, this chicken pepper soup is like that, but with a proper kick.
We're talking deep, rich flavour with a lovely fiery edge. Trust me, this'll become your new favourite comfort food soup .
A Taste of the Motherland
This isn't your average chicken soup recipe . This beauty is inspired by the vibrant cuisine of West Africa. Think Nigerian Pepper Soup with a modern twist.
It's a simple but bold dish, perfect for those chilly evenings. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is a great way to experience a slice of African Chicken Stew without any airs and graces.
Why You'll Bloody Love This Soup!
Honestly, what's not to love? Not only is this Hot and Spicy Soup packed with flavour, but it's also got some hidden benefits.
Chicken broth is amazing for soothing a cold. Add in some fiery chillies, and you've got yourself a proper immune boosting powerhouse.
Serve this up when you're feeling a bit under the weather or just want a spicy chicken soup to warm you up.
What Makes It Special?
Right, so this recipe isn't just about chucking a load of ingredients into a pot. The magic lies in the pepper soup spice blend .
This is what gives it that unique, authentic flavour that'll have you coming back for seconds. And don't be scared of the scotch bonnet pepper recipe just use a little, or a lot if you're feeling brave!.
Onwards, my friends, to the ingredient list!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Chicken Pepper Soup Adventure
Alright, mates, let's talk about what you'll need to make this incredible chicken pepper soup . This West African soup recipe is a belter, I promise! Get ready for some serious flavour.
This Nigerian Pepper Soup is a classic.
Main Players: The Ingredients
Chicken: You'll need 2 lbs (900g) of bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. Thighs and drumsticks are your best bet. Honestly, good quality chicken makes all the difference. Free range if you can get it!
Chicken Broth: Go for 8 cups (2 liters) of low-sodium broth. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own chicken broth recipe !
Aromatics: 1 large onion , 2 cloves of garlic , and a 1 inch piece of ginger . Don't skimp on these, they're crucial.
Heat: 2 scotch bonnet peppers . Whoa there! Start with just 1/2 if you're spice shy. These little fellas are fiery! This Scotch Bonnet Pepper Recipe needs careful consideration.
Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) of vegetable oil for sautéing.
Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (5g) salt , and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper . Adjust to your liking.
The Magic: Seasoning Notes
This spicy chicken soup is all about the spice blend. This pepper soup spice blend takes it to the next level. It's the backbone of the flavour!
Core Spices: 1 tablespoon (15ml) ground coriander , 1 tablespoon (15ml) ground cumin , 1 teaspoon (5g) ground fennel seeds .
Extra Heat (Optional): 1 teaspoon (5g) cayenne pepper . For those who like it HOT.
Depth: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cloves , 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried thyme .
Flavour Enhancers : You may like the flavours and aroma of other herbs and spices like: ground uziza seeds, grains of Selim (Eeru or Uda) and alligator pepper
Honestly, don't have fennel seeds? A pinch of anise will do in a pinch. This African Chicken Stew will warm your heart!
Kit Out: Equipment You'll Need
Keep it simple, yeah? You don't need fancy gadgets for this comfort food soup .
Big Pot: A large pot or Dutch oven is essential. Get the chicken soup recipe going in there!
Chopping Essentials: Cutting board and a sharp knife. No brainer.
Measuring Tools: Measuring spoons and cups. Gotta get those spices right!
Don't sweat it if you don't have a fancy grater. A small knife will do the trick for the ginger. This Hot and Spicy Soup will be ready in no time!
Cooking Method: Making Your Own Chicken Pepper Soup
Fancy a bowl of something hot and spicy soup to warm you from the inside out? Let’s chat about making Chicken Pepper Soup , yeah? It's proper comforting, and I promise it’s easier than you think.
This ain't your average chicken soup recipe ; we're talking next level flavour! It's a West African Soup thing. I tried it first when my mate brought it over.
Honestly, it's been a weekly occurrence since.
Prep Steps for Brilliant Broth
First, you gotta get organized. It’s all about the mise en place , innit? Chop your onion (1 cup, 150g) and mince your garlic (1 tsp, 5g).
Grate your ginger (1 tbsp, 15g). Finely chop those scotch bonnet peppers . But be warned! Scotch Bonnets pack a serious punch! Seriously, wear gloves if you're sensitive or just really careful when washing your hands after.
Get your pepper soup spice blend together too: ground coriander (1 tbsp, 15ml), ground cumin (1 tbsp, 15ml), ground fennel seeds (1 tsp, 5g), cayenne pepper (1 tsp, 5g), ground cloves (1/2 tsp, 2.
5g), dried thyme (1/2 tsp, 2.5g). This is your flavor bomb! I learned that once when I had to run out last minute.
step-by-step to Spicy Chicken Soup Perfection
Ready to cook? Let's go!
- Season your 2 lbs (900g) chicken with salt (1 tsp, 5g) and black pepper (1/2 tsp, 2.5g). Don't be shy!
- Heat 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil in your pot. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger . Cook until soft, about 5 minutes .
- Stir in your pepper soup spice blend . Cook for 1 minute , until it smells amazing. This is when the magic happens!
- Brown the chicken on all sides. This builds layers of flavour.
- Pour in 8 cups (2 liters) chicken broth . Add those scotch bonnet peppers . Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through.
- If you're using them, chuck in your bell peppers and celery (1 cup, 150g each). Cook for another 10 minutes .
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. More salt ? More pepper ? Careful with that scotch bonnet heat though!
- Serve hot! Garnish with cilantro if you're feeling fancy.
Pro Tips for a Proper Nigerian Pepper Soup
Want to really nail this? Okay. My top tip? Don't rush the simmering! It allows the flavours to meld. I promise it's worth it! Another one? Don't be afraid to experiment with your pepper soup spice blend .
A pinch of something extra can make all the difference. Oh, and if you’re making it ahead, the flavors intensify overnight.
Just skim off any fat after refrigerating for a healthier bowl. Comfort food soup at its finest, this is!
Alright, let's talk shop about our Chicken Pepper Soup , yeah? It’s not just a soup; it's a proper hug in a bowl.
I mean, who doesn't love a good Chicken Soup Recipe , especially one that's Hot and Spicy ? So, let’s get down to the nitty gritty.
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Soup Game
Honestly, it is all about the little things, innit?
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
First things first, presentation matters. Think of your bowl as a canvas! A swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Oh my gosh, it elevates the whole experience. Try serving this West African Soup with a side of fluffy rice.
Fried plantains are also proper lush! It's a taste sensation.
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Listen, no one wants dodgy leftovers. So, once your Spicy Chicken Soup has cooled down, whack it in an airtight container.
It'll happily sit in the fridge for 3-4 days . You know, easy peasy. Want to freeze it? Go for it! It’ll keep for about 2-3 months .
Reheating? Gentle does it. A low simmer on the stove is best to keep that flavour banging.
Variations: Tailor It to Your Taste
Fancy a change? No worries, my friend. You can easily make this African Chicken Stew veggie. Chuck in some sweet potatoes and butternut squash.
Honestly, they work a treat! For a milder kick, swap the Scotch Bonnet Pepper Recipe for something tamer. A jalapeno will do the trick!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Okay, so let’s keep it real. This soup is good for you. Loads of protein from the chicken. A great source of vitamins and minerals from the veggies.
The spices are also a winner! They're packed with antioxidants. Think of this Nigerian Pepper Soup as a delicious way to boost your immune system.
What's not to love?. And you can make it super with a nice Chicken Broth Recipe .
So, there you have it! Your Chicken Pepper Soup sorted. Get cooking and enjoy. Trust me; it is absolutely cracking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My chicken pepper soup is too spicy! What can I do?
Don't panic, we've all been there! The easiest fix is to add more broth to dilute the spiciness. You can also add a touch of something creamy, like a swirl of coconut milk (think a milder korma), or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the heat.
Serving it with a starchy side like pounded yam or rice can also help to mellow out the spice consider it your culinary fire extinguisher!
Can I make chicken pepper soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker, sauté the aromatics and brown the chicken in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics.
Then, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
Is there a good substitute for scotch bonnet peppers in this chicken pepper soup recipe?
Scotch bonnets bring that authentic Caribbean heat, but if you can't find them, habaneros are a close second. For a milder option, try jalapenos, serranos, or even Thai chilies, but remember, they'll have a slightly different flavour profile.
Always start with less than you think you need and taste as you go you can always add more, but you can't take it back (easier said than done)!
How long does leftover chicken pepper soup last and how should I store it?
Leftover chicken pepper soup will happily keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, bring it to a gentle simmer on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed sometimes flavours can mellow out during storage.
Can I make this chicken pepper soup vegetarian or vegan?
You bet! Swap the chicken for firm tofu, jackfruit, or a variety of hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
You might want to add some smoked paprika to give the vegan version a bit of extra depth and savouriness consider it your secret weapon!
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken pepper soup?
Chicken pepper soup is pretty versatile. In Nigeria, it is usually served with Fufu. Otherwise, for something a little less traditional, a side of coconut rice or regular steamed rice is always a winner, as it soaks up all that delicious broth. Fried plantains (dodo) offer a delightful sweet and-spicy contrast.
You could also go for a simple green salad for a lighter meal - the choice is yours!
Grandmas Spicy Chicken Pepper Soup West African
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 10-15g |
