Gbegiri Soup

How to Cook Authentic Nigerian Gbegiri Soup (Delicious & Easy Recipe)

Gbegiri Soup is a popular Nigerian dish with roots in the Yoruba culture. This delicious and protein-rich soup is made from peeled beans, which are blended and cooked to a smooth, creamy texture. It is often served with Ewedu Soup and accompanied by delicious swallows like Amala, Pounded Yam, or Fufu. If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful dish, you’re in the right place!

Why You’ll Love Gbegiri Soup

• Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber from beans.
• Rich & Creamy Texture: A smooth, velvety consistency that pairs perfectly with swallows.
• Easy to Prepare: Requires just a few simple ingredients and cooking steps.
• Authentic Nigerian Flavor: A must-try for lovers of Yoruba cuisine!

---

Ingredients for Gbegiri Soup

To prepare a delicious pot of Gbegiri Soup, you’ll need:

• 1 cup black-eyed beans or honey beans (Oloyin beans)
• 1 small onion (chopped, optional)
• 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 1 tablespoon ground crayfish
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (cayenne or chili flakes)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon seasoning powder (Maggi or Knorr cubes)
• 1 cup meat stock or water
• 1/2 teaspoon locust beans (iru) (optional, for extra flavor)

---

Step-by-Step Preparation of Gbegiri Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Beans

1. Soak the beans in water for about 20-30 minutes to soften the skins.
2. Rub the beans between your palms or use a blender (pulse method) to remove the skins.
3. Rinse several times until all the skins are removed and you’re left with clean, white beans.

Step 2: Cooking the Beans

1. Transfer the peeled beans into a pot and add enough water to cover them.
2. Cook on medium heat for about 30-40 minutes or until very soft and mushy.
3. If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 15 minutes for a quicker result.

Step 3: Blending for a Smooth Texture

1. Once the beans are soft, blend them using a blender or wooden whisk (ijabe) to form a smooth, thick paste.
2. Add a little warm water or stock if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Cooking the Gbegiri Soup

1. Pour the blended beans back into the pot and place it on low-medium heat.
2. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
3. Add palm oil and stir until it fully incorporates into the soup.
4. Add ground crayfish, ground pepper, salt, seasoning cubes, and locust beans (iru).
5. Mix well and allow to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more water or stock to achieve your preferred consistency.

Step 5: Final Touch & Serving

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Remove from heat and serve hot!
3. Pair with Amala, Ewedu Soup, and assorted meats for an authentic Yoruba experience.

---

Tips for the Best Gbegiri Soup

• Use honey beans (Oloyin beans) for a naturally sweet flavor.
• For a richer taste, cook the beans in meat stock instead of plain water.
• Iru (locust beans) enhances the flavor significantly but is optional if you don’t like the strong aroma.
• Adjust palm oil quantity based on your preference.
• Blend the beans thoroughly for an ultra-smooth texture.

---