The best white soup, also known as “Ofe Nsala” in Nigerian cuisine, is characterized by its creamy texture and rich flavour profile. To achieve this culinary delight, several key ingredients are essential. First and foremost, fresh fish, typically catfish or tilapia, forms the foundation of the soup, providing a delicate seafood essence.

Next, a medley of aromatic spices such as fresh ginger, garlic, and onions infuse the soup with depth and warmth. Ground crayfish adds a distinctive umami note, while fresh Utazi leaves contribute a hint of bitterness, balancing the overall taste.

Finally, the creaminess of the soup is enhanced by the addition of ground melon seeds (egusi) or ground cashew nuts, which lend a luxurious texture and nutty undertones.

Combined, these ingredients create a harmonious symphony of flavours that make the white soup a beloved delicacy in West African cuisine.

Here are the major white soup ingredients:

1. 1 Fresh fish (cut into steak, gutted and cleaned)

2. 2 Habanero/Rodo (adjust to your preference)

3. 2 Slices Yam (cooked and pounded or potato/poundo)

4. 1 Tablespoon Red pepper flaked/dry pepper

5. 2 Tablespoons Ground crayfish

6. ¼ Cup onion (chopped)

7. 2-3 Tablespoons Ogiri/Iru (I used Iru; locust beans)

8. 1/2 Teaspoon Uzazi seeds or leaves

9. 1-1.5 Tablespoons Utazi leaves/fresh parsley (I used both)

10. 3 Ehuru (calabash nutmeg seeds; about ½ teaspoon)

11. 1/2 Teaspoon Uda seeds

12. Seasoning powder/cubes

13. Salt to taste

What is White Soup Made from?

Ofe Nsala is known as white soup because palm oil is not used for the preparation, unlike other traditional soups. While it is traditionally made with catfish, one can also make use of chicken as in the…

Ofe Nsala is a delicacy peculiar to the Igbo tribe of Nigeria, especially the people of Anambra state.

What are the Spices in Nsala Soup?

White soup spices (Nsala spices) are made of calabash nutmeg, Uda, Cameroon pepper, Uziza seeds, Uziza leaves, Aidan fruit, cayenne pepper etc.

White soup spices are used for cooking white soup (Ofe Nsala) which has a much hot taste that follows right down to the back of your throat, giving a prominent flavour to soups.

Is Nsala Soup Healthy?

Nutritious and good food helps one look good and healthy. Today’s recipe, Ofe Nsala soup also known as white soup, is rich in protein, vitamins C, E, potassium and omega-3 fatty acid. Nsala soup is perfect for a cold rainy day due to its spicy taste.