Cookbook:Ofe Utazi (Nigerian Utazi Soup)

Ofe utazi is a popular soup among the Igbo people of Nigeria.

Ingredients

 * Utazi leaves
 * Cocoyam, washed
 * Beef (or any other meat)
 * Stockfish
 * Cowskin (kpomo)
 * Salt
 * Stock cube
 * Dryfish
 * Ground crayfish
 * Fresh habanero pepper
 * Dawa dawa
 * Palm oil

Procedure

 * 1) Squeeze the utazi leaves in a bowl with some water to wash off the bitterness. Rinse and slice, then set aside.
 * 2) Place the unpeeled cocoyam in a pot. Cover with water, and boil until tender. Drain.
 * 3) Peel the cocoyam. Pound it using a mortar and pestly until it becomes smooth, stretchy, and sticky.
 * 4) Combine beef, stockfish, and cowskin in a pot. Season with salt and seasoning cube. Cook in its own juices before adding additional water.
 * 5) Simmer for 15 minutes, then add the dryfish.
 * 6) Blend the ground crayfish, habanero pepper, and dawa dawa to a smooth paste.
 * 7) Add this paste to the stew along with the palm oil. Simmer for a few minutes
 * 8) Add the pounded cocoyam in small lumps. Stir well, and continue to cook on high heat.
 * 9) Once you have gotten the desired consistency, add the washed and sliced Utazi.
 * 10) Bring to a boil, and season with salt as necessary. Stir, and remove from the heat.
 * 11) Serve the utazi soup with the swallow of your choice.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Ensure you start cooking the cocoyam ahead of time, since it will take time to prepare.