Light Soup is a flavorful and spicy soup made with various ingredients, including tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, hot peppers, and typically meat or fish. Peanut Butter Soup, on the other hand, is another delicious Ghanaian dish that features peanut butter as a key ingredient.

Here’s a brief history of Light Soup (Nkatenkwan) and its significance in Ghanaian society:

Light Soup, or Nkatenkwan, has deep roots in Ghana’s culinary heritage, particularly among the Akan-speaking people, including the Ashanti and Akan tribes. Its origins can be traced back to traditional cooking methods and the use of locally available ingredients.

The dish gained popularity due to its rich and flavorful taste, as well as its nutritional value. It was traditionally prepared using a variety of meats, such as chicken, beef, or fish, along with aromatic spices and herbs.

In Ghanaian society, Light Soup holds cultural significance and is often served during special occasions, celebrations, and gatherings. It symbolizes hospitality, communal sharing, and the joy of coming together with loved ones over a delicious meal.

Light Soup is typically enjoyed with staple foods like fufu (a dough-like mixture made from cassava, plantains, or yams), rice, boiled yams, or plantains. It is also commonly paired with side dishes such as steamed vegetables or salads.

To prepare Light Soup, also known as Nkatenkwan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients:

500g of chicken, beef, or fish (cut into pieces)
2 medium onions (1 chopped, 1 sliced)
2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup of chopped spinach or any leafy green vegetable (optional)
1 tablespoon of tomato paste (optional)
2-3 tablespoons of palm oil (optional)
1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers or any hot pepper (chopped) – adjust to taste
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 teaspoon of ground crayfish or shrimp powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Water
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Time needed: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Step 1
Clean and prepare the meat or fish by washing and cutting into pieces. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Step 2
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3
Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste (if using). Cook until the tomatoes break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4
Add the seasoned meat or fish to the pot along with the sliced onion, Scotch bonnet peppers, dried thyme, and crayfish or shrimp powder (if using). Mix well to coat the meat with the sauce.
Step 5
Pour in enough water to cover the meat or fish, and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the meat or fish is tender.
Step 6
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If using, stir in the chopped spinach or leafy greens and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted
Step 7
Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Light Soup (Nkatenkwan) is traditionally served with boiled yams, plantains, or rice. Enjoy your delicious Ghanaian dish!
Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade Light Soup!
Step 8
Light Soup (Nkatenkwan) is traditionally served with boiled yams, plantains, or rice. Enjoy your delicious Ghanaian dish!

How to prepare Light Soup (Nkatenkwan)

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