GBEGIRI SOUP

/gbeː.gi.ri suːp/

Definition:

GBEGIRI SOUP is a traditional Yoruba soup made primarily from peeled and cooked beans, typically black-eyed peas or brown beans. The beans are blended into a smooth, velvety consistency and seasoned with palm oil, pepper, and local spices. It is often served with amala, ewedu, and meat or fish, forming a beloved trio in Yoruba culinary culture.

  • Synonyms: “Bean soup”“Yoruba bean stew”, “Velvety bean sauce”
  • Antonyms: Efo Riro (vegetable-based soup), Ogbono (draw soup), Egusi (melon seed soup)

Hear how native speakers pronounce GBEGIRI SOUP in the video below.

Usage Examples:

  • Informal: Na only GBEGIRI SOUP fit make me forget say I dey diet.” (Only GBEGIRI SOUP makes me forget that I’m on a diet.)
  • Formal: “GBEGIRI SOUP is rich in protein and dietary fiber.”
  • Idiomatic: “If GBEGIRI no thick, na like marriage without trust!” (If GBEGIRI isn’t thick, it’s like a marriage without trust!)

Cultural Context:

Origin:

The word “GBEGIRI” originates from the Yoruba language, where it literally means “bean soup” or “soup made from beans.” This dish has roots in traditional Yoruba households and has been passed down through generations. It is said to have originated from Ibadan and its surrounding regions, where it gained popularity due to its unique taste and simple yet nourishing ingredients.

Historically, GBEGIRI SOUP was served during festive periods or at traditional gatherings. Over time, it evolved from being a local specialty to becoming a dish served in high-end Yoruba restaurants and bukas (roadside eateries) across southwestern Nigeria.

Regional Usage:

GBEGIRI SOUP is especially popular in southwestern Nigeria, particularly among the Yoruba-speaking states such as Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo. It is a cultural staple and is often consumed during major events, traditional weddings, and Sunday meals.

In recent years, its fame has spread to other regions of Nigeria and among the Nigerian diaspora, especially in the UK, Canada, and the US, where Yoruba communities preserve their food culture.

Restaurants across Nigeria now serve GBEGIRI SOUP as part of a combo meal with ewedu and assorted meats, appealing to both locals and tourists who wish to taste authentic Yoruba dishes.

You don chop GBEGIRI SOUP before? Drop one sentence with “GBEGIRI SOUP” for pidgin—make we feel your love for food!

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