How to Make Uba Fish Soup: A Traditional African Delicacy

--- published by foodie Parmod.

If you're looking to explore traditional African cuisine, Uba Fish Soup is a flavour-packed dish that deserves a place on your table. Rich, hearty, and full of nutrients, this soup is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Nigeria and other parts of West Africa. In this blog post, you'll learn exactly how to make Uba Fish Soup from scratch, using ingredients commonly found in African markets and local shops across the UK.

Whether you’re a fan of African food or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a great introduction to the bold and aromatic flavours the continent is known for.

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What is Uba Fish Soup?

Uba Fish Soup is a traditional Nigerian soup made primarily with Uba (also known as oil bean seed), smoked or fresh fish, and a rich blend of native spices and leafy greens. Uba is loved for its earthy, slightly nutty flavour and its chewy texture, which adds a satisfying bite to soups and stews.

The soup is typically served with swallow staples like pounded yam, fufu, eba, or semovita, making it a wholesome and filling meal.

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Ingredients for Uba Fish Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a flavourful pot of Uba Fish Soup (serves 4–6 people):

Main Ingredients:

2–3 medium-sized smoked fish (or fresh fish like mackerel or tilapia)

1 cup Uba (oil bean seed), cooked and sliced

2 cups water or fish stock

2 tablespoons ground crayfish

1 tablespoon ground pepper or Scotch bonnet (adjust to taste)

2 cooking spoons of palm oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2–3 seasoning cubes or bouillon

Salt, to taste

A handful of ugu leaves (fluted pumpkin) or spinach, shredded

Optional: periwinkle or stockfish for added flavour

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How to Prepare Uba (Oil Bean Seed)

If you’re using dried uba:

1. Soak overnight in water.

2. Boil for several hours (or use a pressure cooker) until soft.

3. Remove the husk and slice into thin strips.

Alternatively, pre-cooked uba is often available in African grocery shops in the UK.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Uba Fish Soup

Step 1: Clean and prepare the fish

If using smoked fish, rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove dirt and bones. For fresh fish, clean, cut into chunks, and season lightly with salt.

Step 2: Create the soup base

In a pot, heat the palm oil for 2–3 minutes over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and stir until slightly golden.

Step 3: Add seasonings and fish

Add the ground crayfish, pepper, and seasoning cubes. Stir well. Add the fish and a small amount of water or fish stock. Cover and allow to simmer for 10–15 minutes so the flavours blend.

Step 4: Add uba

Gently stir in the sliced uba. Allow it to cook for another 10 minutes, letting it soak up the rich, spicy broth.

Step 5: Add leafy greens

Add your shredded ugu leaves or spinach just before turning off the heat. Stir and let simmer for 2–3 minutes. The greens should remain vibrant and fresh.

Step 6: Taste and adjust

Taste your soup and adjust salt, pepper, or seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and serve hot.

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How to Serve Uba Fish Soup

Uba Fish Soup is best enjoyed with:

Pounded yam

Eba (garri)

Fufu (cassava or yam flour)

Semovita

Scoop some soup over your swallow and savour the blend of textures and bold flavours. It also pairs well with plain white rice if you prefer.

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Cooking Tips

Palm oil: Use pure red palm oil for an authentic flavour. Available in most African and international food shops.

Crayfish: Ground crayfish adds a signature umami flavour—don’t skip it.

Heat level: Adjust Scotch bonnet pepper to your preference. It brings heat and aroma, but can be spicy for some.

Preserved uba: If you buy pre-cooked uba, rinse well before use to remove any excess salt or preservatives.

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Health Benefits of Uba Fish Soup

High in protein: From both the fish and the uba seed.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Especially when using oily fish like mackerel.

Full of fibre: Uba is a good source of dietary fibre, aiding digestion.

Packed with vitamins: Especially from the green vegetables and crayfish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Uba Fish Soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the fish and add more vegetables or mushrooms for protein.

Where can I buy uba in the UK?

Look in African food shops or international supermarkets. You may also find it online in dried or cooked form.

Is this soup spicy?

Traditionally, yes—but the spice level is completely customisable.

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Final Thoughts

Uba Fish Soup is a flavourful and nourishing dish that brings the soul of Nigerian cooking into your kitchen. Its blend of soft uba, rich broth, and spicy kick makes it a true comfort food. Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or discovering African cuisine for the first time, this soup is a must-try.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.