HOW TO COOK OKONG OBONG (UGU) WITH EGUSI (super simple Cameroonian Recipe) @YAJESGARDEN

egusi

🥗Healthier: pumpkin seeds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Pumpkin seeds provide similar texture and flavor at a lower cost.

palm oil

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Coconut oil offers a healthier fat profile while vegetable oil is more affordable.

bitter leaf

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: kale

Spinach is widely available and offers a similar taste.

crayfish

🥗Healthier: dried shrimp

💰Cheaper: fish sauce

Dried shrimp can enhance umami flavor without the cost of crayfish.

Harvest fluted pumpkin leaves and wash them 2-3 times to remove sand and bugs.

Cut the leaves into thin slices.

Blanch the cut fluted pumpkin leaves for 2-3 minutes and cool them in icy water.

Prepare a paste with ground egusi and warm stock from cooked beef and smoked fish.

Heat oil in a large pot and fry sliced onions with salt and pepper.

Add the egusi paste to the pot and fry, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Add a ginger seasoning mix that includes garlic and onions, and continue stirring.

Pour in the remaining stock and cover the pot, cooking on low for 15-20 minutes.

Adjust seasoning with seasoning cubes and add powdered shrimp for flavor.

Incorporate the blanched fluted pumpkin leaves into the mix, balancing greens and paste.

Add cooked beef and smoked fish, stirring and adjusting seasoning as needed.

Optionally, sauté remaining sliced onions in oil for garnishing and add to the dish before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary