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Craving authentic egusi soup abroad? No wahala, let’s cook it together!
Life abroad is all sunshine and snowflakes until that craving for egusi soup kicks in. Suddenly, burgers and fries just won’t cut it.
“Is this how I’ll be eating bland food forever?” You wonder.
Next minute, you’re standing in a supermarket somewhere in Canada, and all you see are endless rows of cheese and strange-looking vegetables.
“Ah ah, but where is the egusi in this place?” 
The struggle to cook authentic egusi soup abroad can be real o! But don’t worry, let’s figure out how.
Discovering Egusi Soup Abroad: Finding Familiar Ingredients
When you first arrive in countries like Canada, the USA, or Europe, you might wonder, “Can we find the ingredients to cook egusi soup here?” The answer is yes!
In cities like Toronto, New York, and London, there are African grocery stores brimming with familiar products. Places like the African Caribbean Food Market in Toronto or Adom African Market in London offer egusi seeds, palm oil, and more.
Large supermarkets often have international aisles. Stores like Walmart in the USA or Tesco in the UK may carry some of the ingredients we need.
Additionally, websites like Amazon, eBay, or specialty stores like My Sasun deliver ingredients right to our doorsteps.
It’s like a treasure hunt, and finding these ingredients helps us feel connected to our roots when you cook egusi soup abroad.
Embracing Substitutes: Keeping the Authentic Taste
Sometimes, you might not find everything, but that’s okay. You can use substitutes without losing the essence of our soup.
- Egusi Seeds Alternatives: If egusi seeds are hard to find, ground pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are great substitutes. They have a similar nutty flavor.
- Vegetable Swaps: Can’t find ugu leaves (fluted pumpkin leaves)? Spinach, kale, or collard greens work wonderfully. They add the same vibrant color and nutrients.
- Palm Oil Options: If red palm oil isn’t available, you can mix vegetable oil with a bit of paprika or annatto seeds for that rich, red hue.
Using these substitutes symbolizes our adaptability—finding ways to keep our traditions alive in new environments.
How We Cook Authentic Egusi Soup Abroad
Let’s get cooking and bring the taste of home to our new kitchens.
Ingredients
- Protein: Beef, goat meat, chicken, or turkey
- Egusi Seeds: Or pumpkin/sunflower seeds
- Vegetables: Spinach, kale, or collard greens
- Palm Oil: Or vegetable oil with paprika
- Crayfish Powder: Adds a savory depth
- Onions and Garlic: Fresh aromatics
- Seasoning Cubes: Such as Maggi or Knorr
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional: Smoked fish or dried shrimp for extra flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: Wash and cut the meat into small pieces. In a pot, combine the meat, chopped onions, seasoning cubes, salt, and enough water to cover. Cook until the meat is tender.
- Grind the Seeds: Blend the egusi seeds into a fine powder. Mix with a little water to form a thick paste.
- Start the Soup Base: In a separate pot, heat palm oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the egusi paste and fry for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the cooked meat and its broth into the egusi mixture. Stir well. If using smoked fish or dried shrimp, add them now. Let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the spinach or kale. Add crayfish powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy your authentic egusi soup with pounded yam, fufu, garri, or amala.
The familiar aroma brings a smile, and we know we’ve succeeded in bringing a piece of our heritage abroad.
Connecting with Community: Where to Buy Ingredients
Finding ingredients also means connecting with others.
- In Canada: Visit Grace Foods in Toronto or Afrocan Food Market in Vancouver.
- In the USA: African Store in Houston or Mandela African Market in New York are great options.
- In Europe: Eko Foods in London or Africa Shop in Berlin offer a variety of African goods.
Don’t hesitate to ask local African communities for recommendations. We find camaraderie and support in shared experiences.
Sharing Egusi Soup and Culture
Cooking egusi soup abroad is more than making a meal—it’s about sharing and adapting. Invite friends over (even though it’s tempting to eat it all alone). Share the soup with new friends. It’s a wonderful way to introduce them to our culture.
- Join cultural groups: Look for African associations or community centers. They offer support and a sense of belonging.
- Don’t forget to celebrate festivals. Attend or organize events like Nigerian Independence Day or cultural festivals. It keeps our traditions alive.
By sharing our food and traditions, we enrich our new communities and keep a piece of home with us. It’s ironic how being far away brings us closer to our roots.
Conclusion: The Symbolism of Egusi Soup Abroad
Cooking egusi soup abroad symbolizes our journey—blending the old with the new.
Our internal monologue might say, “Can I really adjust to this new place?” But as we navigate foreign supermarkets and adapt recipes, we realize we’re stronger than we thought.
Embrace the adventure, and savor every spoonful of the soup that warms our hearts and homes.
