Recipes

Nigerian Ofe Ugba (Oil Bean Soup) Recipe

April 1, 2026  Chef Joe Avatar
Nigerian Ofe Ugba (Oil Bean Soup) Recipe

Ofe Ugba is the usual and commonly known name for this special Igbo cuisine.
Ugba which means African oil bean is a fermented seed that is commonly consumed in south eastern Nigeria.

Ofe Ugba is a savory, slightly sour soup that has a noticeable and characteristic smell. The dish is made to produce an authentic traditional flavor mostly through fermented oil beans and indigenous ingredients and spice. It is similar to Ugba salad but served in a soup form, and hence can be eaten with any form of swallow.

This dish is commonly eaten at ceremonies or gatherings that have to do with culture, and is particularly favored for its savory and purely Igbo flavor.

Health Benefits of Ofe Ugba

1. Plant Based Protein Source:

Ugba oil bean is rich in protein.
• Repairs body tissues and promotes body growth.
• Provides the body with necessary amino acids.

2. Contains probiotics (fermented food):

Ugba is naturally fermented.
• Encourages a healthy digestive system.
• Boosts digestive system efficiency.

3. Natural oils present:

Oil beans are rich in natural oils.
• Supply body with energy.
• Helps improve brain function.

4. Improves appetite and digestion:

The fermented smell of ugba is an appetite booster.
• Adds to its tasty flavors.
• Improves digestibility.

5. Source of minerals:

Contains calcium, potassium, iron, etc.
• Aids the proper functioning and development of bones.
• Enables improved blood flow

INGREDIENTS

Ugba (Oil Bean) 2 Cups (Well washed and sliced)
Assorted Meat 300g (Beef, goat meat, or ponmo)
Stockfish 100g (Pre-soaked and cleaned)
Dry Fish 1 Medium piece (Washed)
Palm Oil 3–4 Tablespoons
Ground Crayfish 2 Tablespoons
Ogiri Igbo (Optional) 1 Small wrap (For deep traditional flavor)
Pepper (Scotch Bonnet) 2–3 Pieces (Blended)
Utazi Leaves 2–3 Leaves (Shredded for slight bitterness)
Seasoning Cubes 2 Cubes
Salt To taste
Water / Meat Stock As needed

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 4

Calories Per Serving: 320

% Daily Value
Total Carbohydrate ‏15g 5%
Cholesterol ‏70mg 23%
Total Fat ‏20g 26%
Saturated Fat ‏6g 30%
Unsaturated Fat ‏10g
Dietary Fiber ‏3g 11%
Protein ‏22g 44%
Sodium ‏420mg 18%
Sugars ‏1g 2%

Prep

20 min

Cook

35 min

🛒 Nearby Markets & Supermarkets

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💡 Mistakes & Expert Advice

The Mistake

Not washing the ugba properly

Expert Advice

Ugba has a strong fermented smell. Wash with warm water to balance the flavor without removing its authenticity.

The Mistake

Adding too much palm oil

Expert Advice

Ugba already contains natural oil. Use moderate palm oil to avoid an overly greasy soup.

The Mistake

Overcooking the ugba

Expert Advice

Ugba should not be overcooked. Add it towards the end to maintain its texture and flavor.

The Mistake

Skipping utazi leaves

Expert Advice

Utazi balances the richness with slight bitterness, giving the soup its signature taste.

The Mistake

Using too much water

Expert Advice

Ofe Ugba should be rich and slightly thick, not watery. Use controlled liquid.

The Mistake

Skipping ogiri

Expert Advice

Ogiri adds deep umami flavor that enhances the traditional taste of the soup.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

How to Store

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.

Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 2 weeks.

Pro Tip: Flavor deepens after a day due to fermentation components in ugba.

Best Way to Reheat

Stovetop (Highly Recommended): Heat gently on low-medium heat. Add a little water if needed and stir lightly.

Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between rounds.

Important Note: Avoid prolonged boiling during reheating to preserve the texture of ugba and fish.

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