Turkey & Corn pepper soup

A Cozy, Spicy Delight

Hey food lovers! Let’s talk about comfort food, the kind that warms you up from the inside out. When the weather gets cold, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of spicy, aromatic, and soul-soothing pepper soup. But today, we’re shaking things up!

Instead of the usual yam or plantain, we’re using corn! Trust me, this Turkey and Corn Pepper Soup is a game-changer. The combination of juicy turkey, sweet corn, and bold spices will make your taste buds dance!

Are you ready to dive into this cozy goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for cold weather – Warms you up instantly!
Spicy & flavorful – Just the right balance of heat and richness.
Easy to make – No complicated steps, just delicious results.
Unique twist – Ditch the usual yam or plantain and try sweet corn for a change!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Turkey

6–8 turkey wings (or any turkey part you prefer)
1 medium onion, chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 seasoning cubes
1 tablespoon pepper soup spice mix
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2–3 Scotch bonnets (roughly chopped)

For the Pepper Soup

2 cups sweet corn (cut into small rounds)
2 whole African locust beans (Uyayak/Aidan fruit)
1 teaspoon Calabash nutmeg (blended)
4–5 cups water (adjust as needed)
Handful of scent leaves (or parsley as a substitute)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Season and Steam the Turkey

Start by placing your cleaned turkey wings in a pot. If you’re using another cut of turkey, no worries—just adjust the cooking time!

Add chopped onions and grated ginger.

Sprinkle in salt, seasoning cubes, pepper soup spice, and roughly chopped Scotch bonnets.

Stir everything well, cover the pot, and let it steam on low heat for 15 minutes.

Pro Tip: Don’t add water at this stage! The turkey will release its own flavorful juices, which will form the base of your soup.

2. Prep the Corn

While your turkey is steaming, let’s get the corn ready.

Cut the fresh corn into small, bite-sized rounds.

Set aside until it’s time to add them to the soup.

Pro Tip: Corn adds a natural sweetness that balances the spice of the soup. It’s a game-changer!

3. Build the Flavor

After 15 minutes, check on the turkey—you’ll see a rich, flavorful broth has formed. Now, let’s take it up a notch!

Add the Uyayak (Aidan fruit). This gives the soup a deep, smoky aroma.

Toss in the corn and the blended Calabash nutmeg for that authentic Nigerian pepper soup taste.

Sprinkle in extra black pepper for some heat.
Pour in 4–5 cups of water, cover the pot, and let everything cook for 25 minutes.

Pro Tip: If using a tougher turkey cut, check occasionally and add more water if needed.

4. Finishing Touches

Once the turkey is tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add an extra sprinkle of pepper (because spicy soup = ultimate comfort!).
Stir in frozen scent leaves (or fresh if available). If you don’t have scent leaves, parsley is a great substitute.
Remove the Uyayak fruit—you can reuse it for another batch of pepper soup!

Pro Tip: Add scent leaves at the very end so they keep their fresh, herby aroma.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the hot, aromatic Turkey and Corn Pepper Soup into a bowl.

Enjoy it alone, or serve with white rice for a heartier meal.
Savor every bite, especially the fatty edges of the turkey wings—pure bliss!

Pro Tip: The spicier the soup, the better it clears up sinuses and warms you up on chilly days!

What to Serve with Turkey and Corn Pepper Soup

With White Rice – A classic combo that makes it a full meal.
With Bread – Dip fresh, crusty bread into the spicy broth!
With Avocado Slices – The creaminess balances out the spice.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Chicken works well, but turkey gives a richer, deeper flavor.

2. I don’t have Uyayak (Aidan fruit). Can I skip it?
Yes, but it adds a distinct, smoky aroma. If you don’t have it, increase the pepper soup spice blend.

3. How spicy should this be?
As spicy as you can handle! Add more or fewer Scotch bonnets based on your heat tolerance.

4. Can I use other vegetables instead of corn?
Yes! Try yam, plantain, or potatoes. But once you try corn, you’ll be hooked!

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts – Try This Recipe Today!

This Turkey and Corn Pepper Soup is a spicy, hearty, and comforting dish that will warm you up instantly. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with rice, it’s a must-try!

Have you made this recipe? Tag @joyfulcook__ on Instagram so I can see your delicious creations!

Loved this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments—have you ever tried corn in pepper soup before? What’s your favorite pepper soup protein? Let’s chat below! 👇