Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup: Authentic Recipe & Spicy Healing Delight from Scratch
🐟 What is Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup?
Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup is a light, spicy, and aromatic broth made with fresh fish and infused with traditional African spices. This warming soup is known for its healing qualities and is typically served during cold weather, after childbirth, or as a comfort dish for the sick.
Unlike thicker stews, fish pepper soup is broth-based and lighter, focusing on clean flavors and spice. It’s enjoyed across Cameroon with rice, yam, boiled plantains, or just on its own.
🛒 Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Make Fish Pepper Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh fish (catfish, tilapia, or croaker) | 2 medium whole fish | Cleaned and cut into steaks |
| Onion | 1 large | Sliced or blended |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Crushed |
| Ginger | 1 thumb-size piece | Grated |
| Cameroon pepper (or hot chili) | 1 tbsp (adjust to taste) | Gives the soup its signature heat |
| Pepper soup spice mix | 1 tbsp | Includes calabash nutmeg, uziza, and grains of selim |
| Seasoning cubes | 2 | Optional, for extra depth |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Scent leaves or basil | 1 handful | For fresh aroma and taste |
| Water | 5–6 cups | Enough to form a broth |
🔪 Preparation Steps: How to Make Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Clean fish thoroughly using lime or vinegar to remove slime (especially if using catfish).
- Rinse well, then season with half the onions, ginger, garlic, and salt.
- Let it marinate for 20–30 minutes for deeper flavor.
✅ Step 2: Prepare the Broth
- In a pot, pour water and add remaining onions, garlic, ginger, seasoning cubes, and pepper soup spice.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
✅ Step 3: Add the Fish
- Gently place the seasoned fish into the broth.
- Add Cameroon pepper (adjust for heat preference).
- Simmer on medium heat for 10–15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
- Avoid stirring too much to prevent breaking the fish.
✅ Step 4: Final Touches
- Add chopped scent leaves or basil and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup pairs well with:
- Boiled yam
- White rice
- Plantain (boiled or roasted)
- Fufu (cassava or plantain-based)
- Bread
Serve hot for the best flavor and healing warmth.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use firm fish like catfish or tilapia to prevent disintegration during cooking.
- Don’t over-stir the soup once the fish is in.
- Balance the heat with fresh herbs like scent leaf to mellow the spice.
- Use homemade pepper soup spice for a more authentic touch.
🔄 Variations
- Fish + Crayfish: Add blended crayfish for a richer broth.
- Fish + Yam Soup: Add small chunks of yam to make it heartier.
- Fish + Vegetable Soup: Throw in spinach or bitterleaf for a more robust meal.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen fish?
A: Yes, but fresh fish gives a better texture and flavor.
Q: What is the best fish for pepper soup?
A: Catfish, tilapia, and croaker are ideal due to their firm flesh.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: It’s traditionally quite spicy, but you can adjust to your taste.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Cameroonian Fish Pepper Soup is more than just food—it’s a comforting, healing dish passed down through generations. Whether you’re craving warmth or want a taste of Cameroon, this spicy broth made from scratch is the ultimate culinary experience.