Traditional Sierra Leonean Dishes: How to Make Cassava Leaf Soup

Cassava leaf soup is a beloved dish in Sierra Leone and across West Africa. Although it’s called a “soup,” it’s more like a thick, hearty stew that is often served with white rice. This comforting meal is a staple in Sierra Leonean households, packed with flavorful ingredients and rich in history. If cassava leaves aren’t available where you live, don’t worry! Frozen spinach works as a perfect substitute without compromising the taste.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through our favorite cassava leaf soup recipe, which combines smoky, spicy, and savory flavors for a truly satisfying dish. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Sierra Leonean dishes or looking to try something new, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients for Cassava Leaf Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this flavorful dish:

• 500 g stewing meat (chuck beef or round steak)
• 500 g frozen cassava leaves (or spinach)
• 250 g smoked fish
• 100 g dried shrimp
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup oil (palm oil or peanut oil)
• 1/2 tsp vegetable bouillon powder
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers (or cayenne pepper if you prefer less heat)
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Cook the Meat

Start by seasoning the stewing meat with salt, bouillon powder, and half of the chopped onion. In a large pot, brown the meat to lock in flavor. Then add about 3 cups of water and let it simmer on low heat until the meat becomes tender. Keep an eye on the pot and add more water if it starts to evaporate – you want enough liquid to form a thick stew.

2. Prepare the Cassava Leaves or Spinach

While the meat is simmering, defrost and blend the cassava leaves or spinach until it forms a thick paste. This will help create the signature texture of the dish.

3. Combine the Ingredients

Once the meat is tender, add the blended cassava (or spinach), smoked fish, and the remaining onion to the pot. Let everything cook together for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Add the Final Touches

Next, stir in the oil, dried shrimp, peanut butter, and hot peppers. Let the stew simmer for another 10 minutes, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors fully develop.

Serving Cassava Leaf Soup

Cassava leaf soup is traditionally served over steamed white rice, creating a hearty, satisfying meal. For an authentic Sierra Leonean dining experience, you can also pair it with groundnut stew for a feast that showcases the richness of West African cuisine.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cassava Leaf Soup

• Choosing the meat: Stewing cuts like chuck beef work best as they become tender during slow cooking.
• Managing the spice: If you’re new to spicy food, use cayenne pepper instead of Scotch bonnet or habanero for a milder kick.
• Using palm oil: Palm oil adds an authentic flavor to the dish, but peanut oil is a good alternative if palm oil is unavailable.
• Adjusting the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more water to loosen it up.

A Taste of Sierra Leone at Home

This cassava leaf soup recipe brings the heart of Sierra Leonean cuisine to your kitchen. With its smoky fish, rich peanut butter, and vibrant spices, every bite offers a taste of the country’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re from Sierra Leone or just discovering its food, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Try it out, and don’t forget to pair it with other traditional Sierra Leonean dishes like groundnut stew for a full, flavorful experience!