Ogbono Soup Recipe: Draw Soup Rich in Flavor and Texture

One of the most iconic soups in Nigerian food recipes is Ogbono Soup, often referred to as “draw soup” for its stretchy, slippery texture. Made from ground ogbono seeds (wild mango seeds), this soup is not only nutritious but deeply flavorful and incredibly filling.

Perfect with swallows like pounded yam, fufu, or eba, Ogbono Soup is beloved across many Nigerian ethnic groups, especially among the Igbo and Yoruba.

What Is Ogbono Soup?

Ogbono Soup is a Nigerian dish made with ground ogbono seeds that serve as a natural thickener. When cooked, it becomes stretchy and slippery, giving it the unique “draw” effect. The soup is enriched with palm oil, proteins (meat, fish, or both), leafy vegetables, and local seasonings.

Its slippery nature makes it ideal for pairing with swallows, allowing it to glide easily down the throat without chewing.

Ingredients for Ogbono Soup

  • 1 cup ground ogbono seeds
  • 500g assorted meat (beef, cow tripe, kpomo)
  • 1 cup stock fish (pre-soaked)
  • 1/2 cup dry fish (deboned)
  • 2 tablespoons ground crayfish
  • 2 seasoning cubes
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper (scotch bonnet or Cameroon pepper)
  • 1 cooking spoon palm oil
  • 1 small bunch ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves) or bitterleaf
  • Salt to taste
  • 3–4 cups meat stock or water

How to Make Ogbono Soup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Prepare the Meats

  1. Wash and season your meats with onions, salt, and seasoning cubes.
  2. Boil until tender, then add stockfish and dry fish.
  3. Cook together and reserve the stock.

Step 2 – Melt Palm Oil and Add Ogbono

  1. In a separate pot, heat the palm oil slightly (don’t bleach).
  2. Add ground ogbono and stir continuously on low heat.
  3. Gradually pour in the warm meat stock, stirring until ogbono dissolves and forms a drawy base.

🔥 Tip: Keep stirring to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.

Step 3 – Combine and Simmer

  1. Add cooked meat and fish to the ogbono mixture.
  2. Stir in ground crayfish and pepper.
  3. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4 – Add Vegetables and Adjust

  1. Add chopped ugu or bitterleaf, depending on preference.
  2. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes.
  3. Taste and adjust salt or seasoning.

Best Swallow Pairings for Ogbono Soup

Ogbono Soup is typically enjoyed with:

  • Pounded yam
  • Fufu (cassava, yam, or plantain-based)
  • Eba (garri)
  • Amala
  • Semovita

Its “slippery” texture complements the soft, moldable nature of these swallows.

Nutritional Benefits of Ogbono Soup

Ogbono Soup is not only tasty—it’s loaded with nutrients:

  • High in protein – from meats and fish
  • Rich in fiber – especially with leafy vegetables
  • Heart-healthy fats – from palm oil and ogbono seeds
  • Anti-inflammatory – ogbono seeds are known to support digestion
  • Low in carbs – keto-friendly without swallow

Tips for Perfect Ogbono Soup

  • Don’t overheat the oil – Ogbono loses its draw when overheated
  • Stir constantly – Prevents lumps and sticking
  • Add leafy vegetables late – To preserve color and nutrients
  • Use rich stock – For deep flavor and richness
  • Avoid covering early – Helps retain the drawy effect

Variations of Ogbono Soup

  • With Okra: For extra draw and texture
  • With Egusi: Adds richness and body
  • Without Vegetables: Some prefer it plain and drawy
  • With seafood only: For pescatarians or light eating
  • With bitterleaf: Adds a slightly bitter contrast to the richness

Each version shows the range of options in Nigerian food recipes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Adding too much water – Results in a watery soup that loses its draw
  • Using cold stock – Makes ogbono clump and not dissolve
  • Cooking too long after adding leaves – Causes discoloration
  • Skipping crayfish or pepper – The flavor will feel flat

Why Nigerians Love Ogbono Soup

Ogbono Soup is a favorite not only for its flavor but also for its nostalgic, satisfying qualities. Many Nigerians remember it from childhood—made by grandmothers or aunties as a quick but hearty meal.

Its “drawy” nature makes it fun to eat and deeply fulfilling, a true classic in Nigerian food recipes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to try a Nigerian soup that’s both nutritious and comforting, Ogbono Soup is the answer. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and delivers deep, unforgettable flavor.

Explore more traditional recipes like this one on Nigerian food recipes and bring authentic African taste to your table.