Pounded Yam with Egusi Soup | Nigeria

Pounded Yam Ingredients:

• 2 lbs yam, peeled and cut into chunks
• Water
• Salt (optional)

Egusi Soup Ingredients:

• 1 cup egusi (ground melon seeds)
• 1/4 cup palm oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground crayfish (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground pepper
• 1-2 cups meat or fish (optional)
• 2 cups leafy greens (spinach, pumpkin leaves, or kale)
• Salt to taste

Pounded Yam Instructions:

1. Boil the yam chunks in water until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
2. Drain and mash the yams until smooth and stretchy. You can also use a food processor for a smoother texture.
3. Shape the mashed yam into balls and set aside.

Egusi Soup Instructions:

1. Heat the palm oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until softened.
2. Stir in the ground egusi and crayfish (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the ground pepper, meat or fish (if using), and enough water to create a thick soup consistency.
4. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the meat is cooked and the egusi thickens.
5. Add the leafy greens and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve the Egusi Soup with pounded yam.