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A steaming bowl of porcupine soup with tender meat, potatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs in a rich broth, served in a rustic clay pot.

Porcupine Soup – A Hearty, Nutrient-Rich Dish


  • Author: Monica
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Porcupine soup is a rich, flavorful, and nutrient-packed dish made with tender porcupine meat, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. Slow-simmered to perfection, this exotic soup delivers high protein, collagen, and immune-boosting benefits. A traditional favorite in many cultures, it’s perfect for a comforting meal, especially on cold days.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs porcupine meat, cleaned and cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 6 cups water or bone broth
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Herbs and Spices:

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup coconut milk (for a creamy version)
  • 2 chili peppers (for spice)
  • ½ cup mushrooms (for extra umami)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Porcupine Meat

  1. Rinse the porcupine meat thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

  1. Add the porcupine meat and sear on all sides until lightly browned.
  2. This enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.

Step 4: Build the Broth

  1. Pour in the water or bone broth.
  2. Add bay leaves, lemongrass, turmeric, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

  1. Once the meat is tender, add potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes.
  2. Continue simmering for 20-30 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Step 6: Final Touches

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. (Optional) Stir in coconut milk and simmer for an extra 5 minutes.
  3. Remove bay leaves and lemongrass.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
  2. Pair with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a milder flavor, soak the meat in vinegar water for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • For a thicker broth, allow the soup to simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
  • To store leftovers, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Traditional / Indigenous

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: porcupine soup, wild game soup, exotic meat recipe, bone broth soup, high-protein stew