Catfish Pepper Soup

If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, it’s Nigerian Catfish Pepper Soup. Known locally as Point and Kill (because you literally pick your live fish in restaurants), this soup is spicy, aromatic, and deeply comforting. It’s one of those recipes that not only warms your body but also clears your sinuses—perfect for rainy days, cold nights, or anytime you’re craving something light but flavorful.

The secret? The unique blend of pepper soup spices like uda (negro pepper), ehuru (African nutmeg), and uyayak (Aidan fruit), which give it that signature taste no other dish can match. In this version, I add ripe plantains for extra heartiness and shrimp for a little seafood twist. Whether you’re Nigerian or simply love exploring African cuisine, this pepper soup will become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and comforting – Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
• Naturally healthy – Light, nourishing, and packed with protein.
• Authentic flavors – The unique Nigerian pepper soup spices make it stand out.
• Versatile – Enjoy as a starter, main dish, or alongside sides like yam and rice.
• One-pot meal – Less cleanup, more enjoyment!

Read about the cultural significance of Catfish Pepper Soup in Nigerian cuisine.

Ingredients

• 1 medium catfish, cleaned and cut into chunks
• Salt (to taste)
• 1–2 limes or lemons (for cleaning the fish)
• 3–4 scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero), to taste
• 1 small onion (optional, but recommended)
• 1 whole uyayak (Aidan fruit) – Learn more about Uyayak (Aidan Fruit) and its health benefits.
• ½ tsp freshly ground ehuru (African nutmeg)

• 2 tbsp pepper soup spice blend (ground)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 small tomato (for blending)
• 2 semi-ripe plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup shrimp (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2–3 cups water (adjust as needed)
• Fresh herbs (scent leaves, basil, or parsley)

Instructions

• Clean catfish thoroughly with salt and lime, then rinse with cold water.
• Pour boiling water over the fish and let it sit for 1 minute. Drain and rinse—this helps firm up the fish and remove any slime.
• Place the fish in a wide pot.

• Blend scotch bonnet peppers, onion, tomato, ginger, and a little water until smooth.
• Add the blended mixture to the pot with the fish.
• Season with salt, pepper soup spice blend, freshly ground ehuru, and uyayak (Aidan fruit). Add water and stir gently.

• Cover and let simmer for about 7–10 minutes.
• Add the chopped plantains and cook until soft (about 10 minutes).

• Once plantains are cooked, add shrimp and cook for 4 minutes.
• Stir in fresh herbs, simmer for 1 more minute, then turn off the heat.
• Remove uyayak, serve hot, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Always use a wide pot so the fish pieces don’t break apart.
• If you have time, marinate the fish with spices and let it sit for 1–2 hours before cooking—this deepens the flavor.
• Keep the heat at medium to avoid the fish scattering in the soup.
• Save the uyayak fruit after cooking—it can be reused 2 more times!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with boiled yam for a hearty combo.
• Pair with white rice for a filling and balanced meal.
• Enjoy with ripe or unripe plantain for extra sweetness or starch.

• Serve as a light starter at family gatherings or festive events.

If you love soups, don’t miss my Goat meat pepper soup and Turkey and Corn Pepper soup

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 1 month (remove plantains before freezing—they don’t thaw well).
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid stirring too much to keep the fish intact.

Final Thoughts

This Catfish Pepper Soup with plantain and shrimp is bold, spicy, and deeply satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that makes you sweat a little while eating but keeps you going back for more. Perfect for rainy days, chilly evenings, or anytime you want a taste of Nigerian comfort food.

👉 Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram and tag me at @joyfulcook__ so I can see your delicious bowls of pepper soup!