Egusi Soup
Melon Seed Soup
Yes, with a tweak: explicitly request no 'swallow' (e.g., pounded yam, eba, fufu). About 13g net carbs per serving, on the higher side for Nigerian food, so watch the portion.
What it is
A rich, savory soup made from ground melon seeds (egusi), bitter leaf or spinach, palm oil, assorted meats (beef, goat, tripe) and fish (smoked, stockfish), simmered with peppers and spices. Traditionally served with a 'swallow' that must be omitted for keto.
Key ingredients
Ground melon seeds, palm oil, assorted meats (beef, goat, tripe, ponmo), stockfish, smoked fish, crayfish, bitter leaf or spinach, habanero peppers, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, seasoning cubes, salt.
How to make it keto
Explicitly request no 'swallow' (e.g., pounded yam, eba, fufu). Ask if any starch-based thickeners (e.g., cornstarch, flour) are used and request their omission. Limit portions of tomato and bell pepper if very carb-sensitive.
Watch out for
Hidden starch-based thickeners. High amounts of tomato paste or bell peppers in the pepper base. Some chefs might add a pinch of sugar to balance taste. Onions contribute to carbs.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
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