Supare! A Spicy and Savory Delight Straight From Cross River State, Nigeria

Supare is not just another dish; it’s an edible poem, a symphony of textures and flavors that dances on your palate. Hailing from the lush and verdant Cross River State in Nigeria, this culinary masterpiece transcends mere sustenance and ascends to the realm of gastronomic artistry. Imagine succulent chunks of goat meat, slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich and aromatic palm oil base. Picture the intoxicating aroma of smoked fish, blended with fiery Scotch bonnet peppers and fragrant spices like uda and ehuru, all harmonizing to create an experience that tantalizes your senses and leaves you craving for more.
A Culinary Journey Through History and Culture
Supare’s origins are shrouded in the mists of time, a testament to the enduring traditions of the Efik people who inhabit Cross River State. This dish is more than just food; it’s a cultural artifact, passed down through generations, each bite whispering tales of ancestral wisdom and culinary ingenuity. The name “Supare” itself is believed to derive from the Efik language, referring to the slow cooking method employed in its preparation.
The Art of Supare: A Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting a truly authentic Supare requires patience and finesse. It’s not a dish you rush; it’s an experience you savor.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg goat meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 250g smoked fish, cleaned and broken into smaller chunks
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 3-4 Scotch bonnet peppers, roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon uda seeds (negro pepper)
- 1 teaspoon ehuru seeds (calabash nutmeg)
- 2 cups palm oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Water
Instructions:
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Seasoning the Goat Meat: Begin by seasoning the goat meat with salt, black pepper, chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a teaspoon of uda seeds. Allow this mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor penetration.
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Preparing the Palm Oil Base: In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, incorporate the remaining uda seeds, ehuru seeds, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Stir constantly for a few minutes, allowing the spices to release their pungent aromas.
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Adding the Meat: Gently add the marinated goat meat to the spiced palm oil base. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat starts to brown on all sides. This will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Introducing the Smoked Fish and Water: Now, incorporate the smoked fish into the pot, along with enough water to cover the meat by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for at least 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the goat meat is incredibly tender and falling off the bone.
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Final Adjustments: Taste the Supare and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. The consistency should be thick and gravy-like, but not overly watery. If necessary, continue simmering for a further 15-20 minutes to achieve the desired texture.
Serving Suggestions
Supare is best enjoyed hot, traditionally served with pounded yam, fufu, or eba (a dough made from cassava flour). For a more modern approach, consider pairing it with steamed rice or even boiled sweet potatoes.
The dish’s rich and flavorful sauce is ideal for soaking up with starchy accompaniments, creating a truly satisfying culinary experience.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Supare represents the essence of Nigerian cuisine - bold, vibrant, and infused with tradition. This dish invites you to embark on a gastronomic journey, exploring the complex flavors and textures that make Nigerian food so unique and unforgettable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice level to your liking, but remember, the true beauty of Supare lies in its balanced harmony of savory, spicy, and smoky notes. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and prepare to experience a culinary revelation!
Enjoy!