Cookbook:Liberian Pepper Soup

Liberian pepper soup is a flavorful and spicy soup from Liberia. It is a popular dish that is often enjoyed as a warming and comforting meal, especially during cold weather or when feeling under the weather.

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons palm oil
 * 1 onion, finely chopped
 * 2 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 1 ginger, grated
 * 2 Scotch bonnet chile peppers, finely chopped
 * 1 bay leaf
 * 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
 * 4–5 cups chicken broth
 * 1 pound fish, cut into steaks or fillets
 * 1 plantain, peeled and sliced
 * 1 carrot, sliced
 * Salt to taste
 * Ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

 * Cutting board
 * Knife
 * Large pot
 * Wooden spoon

Procedure

 * 1) In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat.
 * 2) Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
 * 3) Stir in the chopped Scotch bonnet peppers and bay leaf. Cook for a few minutes to release the flavors.
 * 4) Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
 * 5) Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the chicken cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and tender.
 * 6) Once the chicken is cooked, add the fish steaks or fillets to the pot and let them simmer in the soup for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
 * 7) Stir in the sliced plantain and carrot. Let the soup simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
 * 8) Season the soup with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference and desired level of spiciness.
 * 9) Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Liberian pepper soup is traditionally served with rice, fufu, or other starchy side dishes.
 * For a milder version, you can reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers used or remove the seeds before chopping them.
 * You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or cabbage to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition

 * This soup is a good source of protein from the chicken and fish, as well as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.