Banku and Okra Soup (Dairy-Free)

Instructions

1. 1Place the about 450 g Banku Mix (Fermented Corn and Cassava Dough) into a large non-stick pot (e.g., 4-quart / 3800 ml) over medium heat (148.9-162.8°C / 150-160°C). Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly with a sturdy wooden spoon, until the dough forms a smooth, elastic mass that pulls away cleanly from the sides of the pot. Divide the hot banku into four equal portions and shape each into a smooth, round ball; set aside.
2. 2Wash the about 450 g Okra thoroughly and cut it into 1.27 cm thick rounds. Peel and finely chop the 1 large Onion. Dice the 2 medium Tomatoes into 1.27 cm pieces. Peel and mince the 3 cloves Garlic. Peel and finely grate the 2.54 cm Ginger. Carefully remove the stem and seeds from the 1/4 small Scotch Bonnet Pepper, then mince it very finely (wear gloves if sensitive).
3. 3Heat the 3 tablespoons Palm Oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot (e.g., 6-quart / 5700 ml) over medium heat (148.9-162.8°C / 150-160°C). Add the chopped 1 large Onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is softened and translucent.
4. 4Add the diced 2 medium Tomatoes, minced 3 cloves Garlic, grated 2.54 cm Ginger, and minced 1/4 small Scotch Bonnet Pepper to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture is fragrant.
5. 5Flake the about 113 g Smoked Fish, ensuring all bones and skin are removed. Rinse the 2 tablespoons Dried Shrimp under cold water. Add the cut about 450 g Okra, flaked about 113 g Smoked Fish, and rinsed 2 tablespoons Dried Shrimp to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. 6Pour in the 4 cups Vegetable Broth. Season with 1 teaspoon Salt and 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper. Bring the soup to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (176.7-190.6°C / 175-190°C), then reduce the heat to low (93.33-107.2°C / 95-105°C) and simmer, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is very tender and the soup has visibly thickened.
7. 7Serve the hot Okra Soup immediately with the prepared Banku balls.

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