African Okra Soup with Kombo – Swala
African Okra Soup with Kombo - Swala
African Okra Soup with Kombo, also known as "Swala" or "Mula Kombo ta Bamia," is a traditional dish of the Kakwa tribe from Yei, South Sudan. This simple vegetarian soup is gluten-free, low in calories, and offers a delightful balance of tender okra, tomatoes, and aromatic onions, enhanced by the unique addition of Kombo (a local ingredient) or bicarbonate of soda.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the Water: Add 1 cup of water to a pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add Kombo/Bicarbonate Soda: Stir in ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate soda (or Kombo) into the simmering water. This helps to enhance the texture of the okra.
- Cook the Onions: Add the chopped onions to the pot and let them boil for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Okra: Once the onions are soft, add the sliced okra and pour in 2 more cups of water. Stir gently and allow the mixture to cook for about 15 minutes until the okra softens.
- Add Tomatoes and Oil: Stir in the diced tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of oil. Season with salt to taste. If using hot pepper, add it now for some heat. Allow the soup to cook for another 5 minutes.
- Finish Cooking: Once the okra is tender and the tomatoes have softened, turn off the heat. The soup should be thick and well combined.
- Serve: Serve hot as a main or side dish. It pairs well with fufu, rice, or other traditional African starches.
Notes
- The bicarbonate of soda (or Kombo) helps to soften the okra and give it a smoother texture.
- Feel free to add hot pepper if you enjoy spicy food.
- This soup pairs well with starchy sides like fufu or rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 320mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Please consider Leaving a Review!
Responses