How to Cook Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 Native Red Palm Oil Boil Soup

red palm oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

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

meat

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: tofu

Chicken is leaner, and tofu is a budget-friendly protein alternative.

bitter leaf

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: kale

Spinach provides similar nutrients and is often easier to find.

palm nuts

🥗Healthier: canned tomatoes

💰Cheaper: pumpkin puree

Canned tomatoes add acidity and flavor without the cost of palm nuts.

Heat red palm oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in water and bring to a boil, skimming any foam that rises to the surface.

Add fish and vegetables, reducing heat to a simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices to taste.

Stir in leafy greens and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

Optional: Add coconut milk for creaminess and stir well before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: