How to Make Nigerian Edikang Ikong Soup
How to Make Nigerian Edikang Ikong Soup
Cuisine: NigerianDifficulty: Medium8
servings25
minutes40
minutes320
kcal1
hour5
minutesEdikang Ikong is a rich, nourishing soup made with fresh vegetables, assorted meats, and seafood a delicacy of the Efik and Ibibio people.
Edikang Ikong Soup is a traditional Nigerian soup native to the Efik and Ibibio tribes of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States. It is a luxurious vegetable soup prepared with ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves) and waterleaf, blended with assorted meats, stockfish, periwinkles, and rich palm oil.
Known for its nutrient density and hearty flavor, this soup is often considered a celebration dish, served at weddings, festive gatherings, and for honored guests. Unlike lighter vegetable soups, Edikang Ikong is thick, rich, and filling, making it a top favorite across Nigeria.
Ingredients
300g ugu leaves (fluted pumpkin) – washed and shredded
300g waterleaf – washed and chopped
400g assorted meats (goat meat, beef, shaki, cow skin)
200g stockfish (pre-soaked)
100g dried fish (washed and deboned)
200g periwinkle (in shell or shelled) – optional
2 cups palm oil
2 tablespoons ground crayfish
2–3 scotch bonnet peppers (ata rodo) – blended
2–3 scotch bonnet peppers (ata rodo) – blended
1 medium onion – chopped
½ cup ground locust beans (iru) – optional
Salt to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Proteins
Wash and season assorted meats with onion, pepper, seasoning cubes, and salt.
Cook until tender, then add stockfish and dried fish. Let simmer in the meat stock until soft. - Build the Base
Add palm oil generously into the pot with the meat and stock.
Stir in crayfish, iru (if using), and blended peppers. Simmer for 10 minutes. - Add the Waterleaf
Stir in chopped waterleaf first and allow to release water. Let it cook down for 5–7 minutes. - Add the Ugu Leaves
Finally, add shredded ugu leaves. Stir gently to combine and allow to simmer for another 5–7 minutes. - Final Taste Check
Adjust seasoning with salt or extra seasoning cube if needed.
Add periwinkle at this stage if desired.
Notes
- Nutritional Benefits of Edikang Ikong
✅ Rich in vitamins A & C (from pumpkin and waterleaf) for strong immunity and eye health
✅ Iron-rich – supports blood building and prevents anemia
✅ High in protein – assorted meats, fish, and seafood provide body-building nutrients
✅ Dietary fiber – promotes digestion and gut health
✅ Energy-boosting – palm oil provides healthy calories for strength - Serving Suggestion
Serve Edikang Ikong piping hot with your favorite swallow pounded yam, fufu, semovita, or eba.
