Refreshing Ovdukh Soup with a South Sudanese Twist

Ingredients

In this South Sudanese adaptation, the traditional Kazakh Ovdukh is transformed by incorporating the flavors and ingredients commonly found in South Sudanese cuisine. The original dish typically includes ingredients such as beef, onions, radishes, and dill. However, in this adaptation, we replace the radishes with okra, add a touch of heat with chili peppers, and introduce the use of local South Sudanese herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Ovdukh, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into small pieces 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into small pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 okra pods, sliced 2 okra pods, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green chili pepper, finely chopped 1 green chili pepper, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 liter (4 cups) water 1 liter (4 cups) water
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the beef pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, sliced okra, and chopped chili pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. 4.
   Add the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the ingredients with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the water and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
6. 6.
   Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Serve the Ovdukh soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Accompany it with lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Okra — Make sure to slice the okra pods thinly to ensure they cook evenly and add a pleasant texture to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.

Serving advice

Serve the Ovdukh soup as a main course accompanied by traditional South Sudanese bread or rice. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or light lunch.

Presentation advice

Present the Ovdukh soup in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon on the side. The vibrant colors of the soup and the aromatic herbs will make it visually appealing.