How to Make Chicken Pepper Soup

Chicken Pepper Soup is a delicious and hearty Nigerian soup known for its spicy flavors and comforting qualities. It is a popular dish across West Africa and can be enjoyed both as a standalone meal or as an accompaniment to other dishes. If you're a fan of spiced dishes, then this recipe is perfect for you. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps involved in making this sensational soup!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon of ginger paste
• 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons of crushed bouillon cubes
• 2 teaspoons of chili flakes
• 2 habanero peppers (chopped)
• 5 cups of chicken broth
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
• Slices of lemon (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Cut the chicken into small, manageable pieces for even cooking.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger paste. Sauté until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they brown slightly, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Season the chicken with dried thyme, crushed bouillon cubes, chili flakes, and salt. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for spiciness.
5. Add the chopped habanero peppers to the pot, distributing them evenly among the chicken pieces.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that all the ingredients are submerged in the liquid. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use less broth.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove the pot from heat. Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
10. Chicken Pepper Soup is traditionally served hot. You can serve it in bowls, accompanied by slices of lemon, which can be squeezed into the soup to add a refreshing citrusy flavor.

Congratulations! You have successfully made Chicken Pepper Soup. This flavorful and aromatic soup is perfect for warming up on cold days or when you're craving a little spiciness. Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with rice, yams, or a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Remember, you can always modify the recipe according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added texture and nutrition. The beauty of cooking lies in experimenting and making a dish your own.

So gather the ingredients, follow the steps above, and get ready to savor the wonderful flavors of homemade Chicken Pepper Soup!