By If you are craving a flavorful and spicy dish, Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup is the perfect choice.
PEPPER SOUP: A NIGERIAN CLASSIC
Soups hold a special place in my heart. They are not just dishes; they are symbols of nourishment and traditions.
If you are looking for an authentic Goat meat pepper soup, this soup certainly delivers the big, bold African flavors you will love.
Almost every culture on earth has its soup recipe, and Africa is not an exception. In fact, soups and stews are a big part of African cuisine. We have many recipes besides this pepper soup. Here are some examples of dishes:
I’m a big fan of goat meat. I use it in many recipes. Some examples are Instant Pot Curry Goat, Jamaican Curry Goat, and Asun (Smoked Goat Meat).
There are many more to explore.
What is Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup and Why You Should Try It
Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper soup is a beloved traditional dish known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. It is made with Goat meat cutlets or chunks, pepper soup spice, and other beautiful condiments.
Pepper soup is renowned for its medicinal properties. It is believed to help alleviate colds and boost immunity due to its spicy and warming ingredients.
What makes this pepper soup truly special is the way it balances heat with depth of flavor.
Meat Alternatives
If goat meat isn’t readily available, consider using:
- Lamb: Offers a similar gamey flavor that’s slightly milder.
- Beef: Provides a robust and hearty taste, perfect for those who prefer beef.
- Chicken: For a lighter version. It is still delicious and quicker to cook.
A STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO COOKING GOAT MEAT PEPPER SOUP
Pepper soup is primarily liquid, usually served hot, and this is made by boiling Meat or Fish of choice in order to extract flavor from them. The broth from this Meat is then further seasoned with authentic African spices. It can be served with boiled yam, plantains, Potatoes, Rice, even bread, or just eat ”as is”.
Can I use other types of meat for this pepper soup?
Yes! Each type of meat will bring its distinct taste to the soup, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand.
How spicy is Nigerian Goat Meat Pepper Soup?
The spiciness largely depends on the number of scotch bonnet peppers you use. In my experience, starting with 1 pepper gives a good heat level, but feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance. If you are sensitive to heat, you can reduce the number of peppers or remove the seeds before chopping. For those who love a fiery kick, leaving the seeds in will amp up the heat.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop and add a splash of water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
What are some starchy foods to add to Pepper Soup?
Common starchy foods include yam, plantain, and potatoes. These help provide a hearty and more satisfying meal.
How long should I cook my goat meat for?
Goat meat can be tough, but it usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to become tender. If you are using a pressure cooker, the cooking time may be reduced. To ensure your goat meat is cooked to your liking, keep a close eye on it once you reach the 30-minute mark. Note that the male goat meat will cook faster than the female goat meat.
How can I get rid of the gamey smell from my goat meat?
To remove the gamey smell from your goat meat, you can rinse it thoroughly with salt water or use lemon or lime juice to neutralize the smell. Further, you can marinate your meat with ginger, garlic, and onion before cooking.
What leaves can I substitute the Uziza Leaves with?
If you can’t find uziza leaves or prefer not to use them, you can substitute them with parsley, mint leaves, or scent leaves. Ensure you wash the bitter leaves and drain them before use.
How to Make Goat Meat Pepper Soup
- Cut the Goat meat into cutlets.
- Then rinse thoroughly, transfer the meat into the Pot, add salt, Seasoning cube, habanero peppers, and half of the onion, and cook for 30 minutes.
- Add the pepper soup spice, red chili flakes, Ginger powder, the remaining grated onion, and crayfish. Leave it to cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in the uziza leaves and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Watch how to make the Peppersoup here:
This pepper soup is suitable for all seasons of the year, and it will also add a little more zing to your day if you are not feeling so well but not to worry if you don’t want it hot, feel free to reduce the quantity of Habanero peppers and the chili pepper.
Notes:
- You can substitute dry ginger powder for fresh ginger if you choose.
- The amount of peppers you add to the pepper soup depends on your heat tolerance so feel free to increase or reduce the quantity of peppers you use.
- You can substitute Uziza leaves or bitter leaves with Parsley, mint leaves, or scent leaves; Be sure to wash bitter leaves and drain them when used.
- I have used Goat Meat in this recipe. However, you can also Chicken, Lamb, Beef, or Fish.
- I like to cut the goat meat into cutlets because it cooks faster. You can also easily pick it up with a spoon and eat it right away. If You are comfortable with chunky meat in your pepper soup please go with it but it might need to cook for a longer time.
- To avoid chunks of Onions in your pepper soup, it’s a good idea to either mince the Onion or use the smaller hole on the grater to grate the Onion. I like to use the latter in my pepper soup.
Other delicious soup and stew recipes you might want to try
- Stewed Spinach – Efo Riro
- Egusi Soup
- Ogbono Soup
- Simple Chicken pepper soup
- Stewed Okra – Okro soup
- Chicken Stir-fry with Spinach
- Nigerian pepper sauce – Ata dindin
- Banga soup
- West African Pepper Sauce
- Nigerian Chicken Stew
The African pepper soup is genuinely an ultimate comfort food, and when a meal gives you comfort, then it’s good. It’s warm, hearty, and delicious!
African Pepper Soup – Goat Meat
Ingredients
- 2 Tsp Uziza leaves see note 3
- 1 pound Goat meat
- 2 Tsp Crayfish
- 1 Tbs Pepper soup spice
- 1 Tsp Red Chili flakes
- 1 Tsp Ginger powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 small Onion
- 1 Scotch bonnet de-seeded and minced
- 1 Seasoning cube
- 4 Cups Water
Instructions
- Cut the Goat meat into cutlets (see note 4). Then rinse thoroughly, transfer the meat into the Pot, add salt, Seasoning cube, habanero peppers and half of the Onion (see note 5) and cook for 30 minutes.
- Add the pepper soup spice, red chili flakes, Ginger powder, the remaining grated onion, and crayfish. Leave it to cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in the uziza leaves and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve hot with Yam, Rice, Bread and more.
Notes
- You can substitute dry ginger powder for fresh ginger if you choose.
- The amount of peppers you add to the pepper soup depends on your heat tolerance so feel free to increase or reduce the quantity of peppers you use.
- You can substitute Uziza leaves or bitter leaves with Parsley, mint leaves or scent leaves; Be sure to wash bitter leaves and drain them when used.
- I like to cut the goat meat into cutlets because it cooks faster. You can also easily pick it up with a spoon and eat right away. If You are comfortable with chunky meat in your pepper soup please go with it but it might need to cook for a longer time.
- To avoid chunks of Onions in your pepper soup, it’s a good idea to either mince the Onion or use the smaller hole on the grater to grate the Onion. I like to use the later in my pepper soup.
Nutrition
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If you make this, Pepper soup recipe, I’d love to see pictures of your creations on Instagram and Facebook. #cheflolaskitchen
Thanks for this.The list of your the ingredients has no garlic but the video does. Can I add garlic to that list?
Thanks Samuel, Garlic is aromatic. Feel free to add it
Hello,
Are the calories per serving or for the entire pot?
Hi Adebola, the calorie calculation you saw was for the entire pot but it has been adjusted now to show individual serving.
It is my 2nd time making this for my cameroonian husband. He loves it!! I add pork neck bones instead of goat meat.
I am glad you made it your own and he loved it. Well done, Shanice.
I love this pepper soup! May I ask, is it fresh crayfish you use?
No,Georgie. I used crayfish powder.
I’m a man and I’m learning how to cook because I’d like to relief my wife sometimes from some of the cooking. She however does not not know it’s here i get my lectures. Thanks Prof Lola
Kibai, so lovely of you. I am sure she will be happy when you start showing your cooking skills. 👍👍👍👍
Wow Mrs Lola it was so tasty I actually can’t believe I did it thanks dearie 😘😋😋😋
My Nigerian boyfriend loves this recipe, my second time! Thank you Lola 🙌🏾
Good to hear.
What is pepper soup spice?
Pepper soup spice is a special seasoning that brings out that signature flavor of African pepper soup.
@Chef Lola’s Kitchen, what spices are in pepper soup spice, or where can it be purchased? This isn’t a spice I’ve seen in a standard grocery store in Oklahoma unfortunately!
@Chef Lola’s Kitchen, where can I get the spice from
My whole house is sick currently, with sinus infections and cold! Pepper soup it is today! Thank you for your easy to follow recipes!
Great write up. I made it so perfect. Please do you know how to make ‘ofe ogwugwe’. It is not cooked but made with lots of crayfish, salt , pepper and hot water, then dry fish if available.can you? I heard of it from my husband’s people and he loves it especially when he’s ill. I have never gotten it right. Thanks
I cooked this for my Nigerian husband when he was sick. This was all he wanted to eat (I’m Canadian, and had no idea what pepper soup was). You’re a lifesaver. Excellent recipe!
I’m so glad you loved it Tia. Thanks so much for the great feedback!
Thank you very much for sharing this. I intend to make it this evening for my d.h. I’ll serve it with basmati and let you know how it goes.
I hope it turned out well? 😊
🙂
Seasoning cube?? There are a lot of cubes available. Any specific ones that are recommended?
I prefer chicken cubes. Any brand is fine.
@Bob,
Great recipe. Thanks! I added 3x habanero pepper , 1tbs powered cayenne pepper, and half a bell pepper to light a fire under it 🙂
Fire!!! I love it this way but my babies will not allow me 😊😊😊😊😊
Chef Lola you are the best! I come from Kenya and am married to a nigeria man. I have been using your recipes to cook for my hubby and I must say thank you. The food is always delicious and we all enjoy it. Keep it up.😚
I’m glad you love it here Stella. ❤❤❤❤❤
I want to make this but don’t know what scotch bonnet is
Scotch bonnet is a type of hot spicy pepper. You can use habanero in place if the scotch bonnet/Ata Rodo
Can I use use ugwu leaves in substitute to the leaves mentioned?
Yes, you can Amara.
Thank you so much ma…. I cooked it for my family and they all loved it..
This is the first time I’m trying your recipe and I wasn’t disappointed.. God bless you ma…
Glad to know you weren’t disappointed. Thanks for the feedback. 🙂
This is really helpful. I will surely tag you when I’m done making mine.
Thanks so so much ma lola. Your notes have been so helpful,and this isn’t out of it. Would do this today. God bless you.
You are welcome Gift. I hope the recipe turned out well for you?
Using this recipe…adding cray fish and ginger to pepper soup was new for me, and I LOVED IT.
I tried this yesterday and it came out great. I have never made peppersoup before but I trusted a recipe on the internet would assist me and I am glad I found this. Thank you very much!! Sorry, I didn’t take pictures. It didn’t occur to me.
If it’s not cheflolaskitchen then I wonder what!! When I cook with these recipes,I do it with confidence ’cause I’m certain it’s gonna come out close to perfect if not perfect.
Delicious recipe! I was looking to make some pepper soup like the one I’ve had from a restaurant recently, and this recipe did not disappoint! My dad is Nigerian, and I can’t believe we never had pepper soup growing up. I’ve been missing out! So glad to have found this recipe! I even made extra to freeze, so that I have some when cold & flu season hits, because I can tell this will be an amazing comfort and healing food.
Good for me
Lol
Love❤️
I just made this today, but instead of goat meat, I used smoked turkey necks. It is AMAZING! Thank you Chef Lola. I have made about 10-12 of your recipes over the last few months and am never disappointed. You’re the best!
Oh mine, what a great compliment. I’m so pleased to hear this Toni!
Lovely video, would be better if you include the names of the ingredients on the screen rather than just saying them. Once again great presentation, I’m definitely going to try it out 👍🏾👌🏿
Noted. Thank you.
Auntie lola ur too much. Adding Nigerian varieties to my south African food makes lot of difference. I beg country ban must end I want to go home and cook more for my inlaws.
Thank u dear Lola
I love eating it with white rice, or ebam. I love that.
Thanks for this. Please where are you staying? Can you tell me?
I live in the united states 😊
Thanks so much mrs Lola, i enjoyed every bit of it.
Wow so tasty… I just finished my too with the support of crayfish and Mrs Lola…thanks a lot
You must be a fool to say crayfish should not be used in pepper soup
Thanks lola for the recipe.
Hello Lola,
I am planning on making this. If I substitute goat meat for stew beef meat, should I still follow the same directions? Please Advise. For meat, is it best to use boneless or in-bone? Please Advise. And if I add green plantain, when should I add it?
Why using crayfish in pepper soup I’m so surprise
Hi Francis, as strange as that may sound, trust me, it tastes so good. It boosts the flavor of the soup.
Hi Lola, thanks for your recipes, I am an Spanish lady and I love African food, and so far I have done egussi and pepper soup, thanks again because I have learning something new.
excellent and simple and ear directions. will make it tonight as my counter-corima cooking
What’s the pepper soup spive?
In love the recipe
I’ve never used Crayfish before. Where can I find it?
Any African store will have crayfish.
I love African dishes and this has been on my to-do list for a while. An amazing keeper recipe. Thanks for sharing.
Hello! This recipe looks fantastic! I love trying new foods and anything that includes Scotch Bonnet Peppers has to be off the chain delish! I can’t wait to try this recipe ASAP! I love spicy foods, the hubby will love this too I bet!
Oh wow! This looks so good and full of flavor.
HELLO, I made this, and I’m making it again right now, it was such a hit that everyone is asking for it again. I LOVE this hot pepper soup. Thanks. I also found an AMAZING Jasmine RICE recipe to go with it. Yum, yum, yum.😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Janet! Thanks for the feedback!! ❤️
Im not seeing how much liquid to use.
I apologize, I used 4 Cups. (**recipe adjusted)
The recipe seems nice. I’ll try it one of these days
I will be happy to know how well you like it. ❤️
I’m not sure if I can find pepper soup spice here in Italy but I love the sound of this soup. I love spicy meat soups!
You can place an order from Nigeria
This looks delicious with proper hearty bold flavours, so perfect for a winter warmer. Can’t wait to try!
I’m so intrigued by this soup! Lots of new meat and flavors than what I normally eat. Bookmarking!
what an interesting soup. I have never even seen goat. Sure sounds hearty and looks great
African pepper soup is one of my absolute favourites! This looks so delicious, I could do with a bowlful right now!
where would I get the pepper soup spice?
Hi Richard, the spice is sold at any African/Carribean market. You can also get it on Amazon. Just search for pepper soup spice.
Thanks, I tried this, it was so good.
Thanks for letting me know Isabelle. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
thanks Mrs. Lola
You are welcome 🙂
are u marred
Happily married!
Thanks Lola. Exactly what I needed.
Aww…’m glad you got what you wanted. 🙂
would the cooking time be the same if I substitute chicken for goat?
Dear Melinda, the cooking time is totally dependent on the type of the chicken or even the part of the chicken that you are cooking (e.g perhaps its an organically raised chicken-which may take time or genetically modified chicken- which cooks faster. Even still the breast cooks faster than the thighs regardless in some instances)… so you’ll have to experiment to know what cooking time works for you.