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
- Rinse the porcupine meat thoroughly under cold water.
- Blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
- Add the porcupine meat and sear on all sides until lightly browned.
- This enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.
Step 4: Build the Broth
- Pour in the water or bone broth.
- Add bay leaves, lemongrass, turmeric, black pepper, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
- Once the meat is tender, add potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes.
- Continue simmering for 20-30 minutes until vegetables are soft.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- (Optional) Stir in coconut milk and simmer for an extra 5 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves and lemongrass.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
- 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