- The Hausa ethnic group is one of the largest in Nigeria and they are known for their culinary tradition that includes a variety of soups
- These soups can be served with rice or swallows like Tuwo dawa (Millet), Tuwo Shinkafa (Rice), or Tuwo Masara (Maize)
- Here are eight traditional Hausa soups you should try
The Hausa people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, are known for their rich culinary traditions that include a variety of flavourful soups. These soups, often served with rice or different types of swallow, are not just a staple of Hausa cuisine but also a reflection of their culture and hospitality.
Each soup has its unique ingredients and flavour, reflecting the agricultural practices and available resources in the northern regions of Nigeria. Here’s a look at some popular Hausa soups.
8 Traditional Hausa soups
1. Miyan Kuka (Baobab leaf soup)
Credit: Foodnify
Miyan Kuka is a traditional soup made from the powdered leaves of the baobab tree. This thick, green soup is often prepared with meat and can be flavoured with spices like pepper and locust beans. Miyan Kuka has a slightly sour taste, which comes from the baobab leaves, making it a refreshing dish often enjoyed with tuwo (a type of swallow made from maize or rice).
2. Miyan Geda (Groundnut soup)
Credit: Grated Nutmeg
Miyan Geda is a rich and creamy groundnut (peanut) soup that features roasted groundnuts as its main ingredient. The groundnuts are blended into a smooth paste and cooked with spices, tomatoes, and sometimes meat or fish. This hearty soup is loved for its nutty flavour and is often served with rice or tuwo.
3. Miyan Gayen Rogo (Cassava leaf soup)
Miyan Gayen Rogo is a nutritious soup made from cassava leaves. This soup is typically cooked with meat or fish and flavoured with spices.
4. Miyan Agushi (Melon seed soup)
Credit: Aminiya
Miyan Agushi is made with ground melon seeds similar to Ofe Egusi which is a traditional Igbo soup. It is often cooked with meat, fish, or vegetables and flavoured with spices. This soup is filling and can be served with any type of swallow or rice.
5. Miyan Wake (Bean soup)
Credit: Sisi Jemimah
Miyan Wake is a simple but flavorful soup made primarily from beans. The beans are cooked and blended to create a thick, smooth soup that is often enhanced with spices and served with meat or fish. This hearty soup is comforting and ideal for any meal.
6. Miyan Zogale (Moringa soup)
Credit: Jiddah’s Kitchen
Miyan Zogale is made with moringa leaves which are known for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. The leaves are cooked with meat and spices to create a delicious and healthful soup. Miyan Zogale is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
7. Miyan Kifi (Fish soup)
Miyan Kifi is a flavorful fish soup that highlights the freshness of the fish used, typically catfish or tilapia. The fish is cooked with spices, tomatoes, and other ingredients, creating a light yet savoury dish. This soup is often served with rice and is a favourite among those who enjoy seafood.
8. Miyan Alayyahu (Vegetable soup)
Credit: Cookpad
Miyan Alayyahu is a flavorful soup made with alayyahu (spinach), a green leafy vegetable. This soup is often cooked with beef, fish, or sometimes both, and flavoured with a variety of spices. It’s a healthy and delicious option for vegetable lovers, offering a good dose of iron and nutrients. It pairs wonderfully with rice or swallows.
Other Hausa soups are Miyan Albasa, Miyan Kwai da Wake and Miyan Taushe.
5 traditional soups of the Ibibio people in Nigeria
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier compiled five flavourful and nutritious traditional soups of the Ibibio people in Nigeria.
Among them are Edikang Ikong soup, Afia Efere, Atama soup, which are mostly made with leafy greens and proteins.