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Soupe d’Odika

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 min
Prep
30 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 150 g (5 oz) odika (wild mango seed) paste
  • 200 g (7 oz) smoked fish, flaked and deboned
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1 bird's eye chile, whole
  • 800 ml (3 1/3 cups) water or fish stock
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) red palm oil
  • Salt, to taste

Method

  1. Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the tomato and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the water or stock and bring to a simmer.
  4. Break the odika paste into pieces and whisk into the simmering liquid until dissolved.
  5. Add the smoked fish and whole chile, and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly and deepens in colour.
  6. Remove the chile, season with salt, and serve hot in bowls.

Introduction: This savoury soup version of odika differs from the sweeter breakfast porridge, typically enriched with smoked fish or chicken and forest spices to create a warming, deeply flavoured soup enjoyed at midday or evening meals, particularly in the forested interior provinces.

Cultural Background: This savoury soup version of odika differs from the sweeter breakfast porridge, typically enriched with smoked fish or chicken and forest spices to create a warming, deeply flavoured soup enjoyed at midday or evening meals, particularly in the forested interior provinces.

Tips: Whisk the odika in gradually to avoid clumps; a small strainer can help break up any stubborn lumps.

Variations: Smoked chicken can replace smoked fish for an equally traditional variation, especially in inland regions. Omit the smoked fish, use vegetable stock, and add sautéed mushrooms for a smoky, umami-rich vegetarian alternative.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water if too thick.

Nutrition: Approx. 290 kcal, 18 g protein, 20 g fat, 10 g carbohydrates per serving.

FAQs:

Q: Is this the same as the odika breakfast porridge?

A: No — this savoury soup uses smoked fish and aromatics and is served as a meal, unlike the sweetened morning porridge.

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