African soups, often rich in leafy greens and vegetables, are exceptionally beneficial for people living with diabetes due to their low glycaemic index and high nutritional value. Marugbo(Clorendendrum volubile), also known as Ondo Black Soup, is a special soup native to the Ondo people, specifically Ilaje and Ikale in southwest Nigeria. Tread carefully; it’s their pride and one of their signature dishes. Ganumo, or Eweta, as it is called by the indigenous Ondo people, is a blend of Marugbo and other green leaves and spices that provides a burst of healthy nutrients for the body system. The soup’s black colour is a result of the green blend.
Main Nutrients and Benefits
Marugbo leaf contains minerals, high fibre, protein, and essential amino acids. The soup is an herbal stew, but in this case, it is both enjoyable and beneficial and serves as therapy for different health concerns, including flu and diabetes.
Amino Acids
The beneficial amount of essential amino acids present in marugbo makes it an ideal meal for a diabetic patient. Amino acids like glutamine help in maintaining a healthy immune system; they are the building blocks of proteins, and they are essential for muscle growth and repair. Glutamine works to maintain a healthy immune system. These acids also help to support metabolism, the detoxification process, the production of antioxidants, and tissue repair, which is quite important for diabetic patients.
Fibre and Minerals
The high fibre content in Marugbo leaves aids in slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. The leaves are also rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for overall health and particularly beneficial for managing diabetes.
Marugbo (Ewedu) Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 bunch of dried Marugbo leaf
Bitter leaf
Scent leaf (Efintin)
Scotch bonnet pepper (as desired)
1 teaspoon ground crayfish
1 teaspoon locust beans (Iru)
A small piece of ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
A tablespoon of palm oil
Salt to taste
Catfish
Meat for added protein
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Instructions:
- Prepare the leaves: Blend all the leaves, spices, and pepper together thoroughly with water until smooth.
- Prepare the protein. Boil the fish and other protein of your choice in the pot until they are soft.
- Add the blended leaves to the pot and add the palm oil. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt to taste.
Serve: Marugbo soup is traditionally served with fufu, amala, or any other preferred swallow. As a therapy for diabetic patients, it is advisable to consume marugbo as a soup meal. Stay up to date on the latest in fashion, arts, beauty, and lifestyle by following FAB L’Style Magazine.
