Editorial sample recipeNigerianbeginnerHalalGluten-FreeDairy-Free

Nigerian Ila Alasepo Okra Stew With Shrimp

Name: Nigerian Ila Alasepo Okra Stew With Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Nigerian
Ingredients: 0.5 lbs fresh okra, finely sliced; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1.5 tbsp ground dried crayfish powder; 1 medium red bell pepper, pureed; 1 small scotch bonnet pepper, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1.5 cups halal vegetable stock; 2 tbsp red palm oil; 1 tsp salt

A classic one-pot Nigerian okra stew simmered with rich dried crayfish, aromatic chili, and seared shrimp for a flavorful broth.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: 35 min

Technique to learn

Viscosity Control

Adding okra late to a bubbling broth without a lid to preserve color, body, and crisp-tender texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the red palm oil in a pot over medium heat for 1 minute without letting it smoke.
Step 2: Add the chopped yellow onion and minced scotch bonnet pepper, sautéing for 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the pureed red bell pepper, ground crayfish powder, and vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Season the broth with salt and let it bubble uncovered for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Add the finely sliced okra to the bubbling stock, stirring well. Cook uncovered for 4 minutes to preserve the bright green color.

Step 6: Add the peeled shrimp into the stew and cook for an additional 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout.

Cooking tips

Do not cover the pot after adding okra, as covering traps steam and alters the stew's natural body.
Ground crayfish powder provides the signature savory West African umami depth to this soup.
Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by Nigerian; regional versions vary.
Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.

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