Unlocking the Culinary Elegance: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Cook Ofe Owerri

Ofe Owerri, the quintessential trademark soup of the vibrant Owerri people in Imo State, goes beyond being a mere culinary delight; it embodies a cultural legacy. The phrase “Ọ̀nye n’ejiro ego, ọ̀ na èrí ofe owerri”,  reverberates, encapsulating not just a dish but an opulent experience reserved for those with a discerning palate.

 

This iconic soup, often celebrated as a class of its own, surpasses the realms of ordinary culinary pleasures. Renowned for its extravagant assortment of meats, Ofe Owerri transforms any dining occasion into a festivity. However, its grandeur comes with a certain exclusivity, as it is a culinary masterpiece that may elude the grasp of the less privileged, giving rise to the popular slang “Ọ̀nye n’ejiro ego, ọ̀ na èrí ofe owerri”.

 

The cultural significance of Ofe Owerri is so profound that it inspired a song by Dr. Sir Warrior and his Original Oriental Brothers International Band in 1994, immortalizing its essence in melodic notes.

 

Intrigued by its reputation, I embarked on a culinary exploration, delving into the art of preparing this esteemed soup. Now, I am thrilled to share my findings, guiding you through the ingredients and procedures on how to cook Ofe Owerri.

Ingredients for Ofe Owerri:

1. Assorted Meats:

   • Beef or Goat (an essential component of opulence)
   • Already cooked Kpomo/Kanda (Cow Skin)
   • Snails

2. Seafood Delights:

   • Prawns
   • Periwinkle

3. Rich Flavors from the Waters:

   • Stockfish
   • Smoked fish

4. Vegetarian Elegance:

   • Ugu leaves (distinctive to Ofe Owerri)
   • Utazi leaves (for an extra layer of richness)

5. Thickening Agent:

   • Ede (Cocoyam paste) (to bring thickness to the soup)

6. Aromatic Essence:

   • Ogiri okpenyi (fermented locust beans)
   • Palm oil (to infuse a luscious hue)

7. Seasonings and Spices:

   • Seasonings and spices (to perfect the taste)

     Read More:

     • • • • Savoring Tradition: Exploring the Top 5 Igbo Soups
           • Five Top Dishes From Enugu State

Step-by-Step Cooking Procedure:

 

1. Prepare the Assorted Meats:

   • Prepare and Rinse:

     • Wash the assortment of meats (beef/goat, snails, kpomo) thoroughly.
     • Gently rinse off any excess impurities.
     • Add the cleaned meats back into the cooking pot.

   • Season and Flavor:

     • Introduce sliced onions for a savory base.
     • Add diced scotch bonnet pepper for a hint of heat.
     • Incorporate two cubes of seasoning for enhanced flavor.
     • Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt to balance the taste.

   • Steam to Perfection:

     • Steam the meats until they release their inner moisture.
     • Allow them to reach the boiling point, ensuring optimal tenderness.

   • Simmer to Succulence:

     • Add water to measure, and Boil the meats.
     • Ensure they absorb the flavors from the seasonings, creating a delicious and well-balanced dish.

2. Add the Assorted Fish and Seafoods:

   • Introduce the washed prawn and stockfish to the pot.
   • Allow the flavors to meld, creating a rich and savory base of protein.

3. Prepare the Cocoyam Paste:

   • Peel and boil the cocoyam until soft.
   • Mash the cocoyam to form a smooth paste, ensuring it contributes to the soup’s thickness.

4. Create the Soup Base:

   • In a pot, heat palm oil until clear.
   • Add the bleached oil to the boiling pot of meat
   • Add the cocoyam paste, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

5. Incorporate Ugu Leaves and Periwinkle:

   • Add the finely chopped Ugu leaves and periwinkle to the pot.
   • These ingredients bring a unique texture and flavor to the soup.

6. Season and Spice:

   • Enhance the taste with seasonings and spices, adjusting according to personal preference.

7. Simmer to Perfection:

   • Allow the soup to simmer, allowing all the ingredients to harmonize and reach their full potential.

8. Smoked Fish Topping:

   • Add the round smoked fish on top of the made soup and cover for a few minutes.

9. Garnish with Utazi Leaves:

   • Just before serving, garnish with utazi leaves for that final touch of sophistication.

Now, armed with this comprehensive guide, you can embark on your culinary journey to master the art of cooking Ofe Owerri. May your kitchen be filled with the aromatic allure of this cultural delicacy, creating a symphony of flavors that transcends the ordinary.