West Africa · Soup
Edikang Ikong (Fluted Pumpkin and Waterleaf Vegetable Soup)
A celebrated vegetable soup from Cross River packed with fluted pumpkin, waterleaf, periwinkles, and an abundance of braised artisanal proteins.
The story
Edikang Ikong holds sovereign status within Efik and Ibibio culinary history, traditionally prepared for coronation banquets, bridal ceremonies, and revered guests in Calabar. The hallmark of true authenticity lies in its near-waterless cooking method, relying entirely on the natural moisture released by waterleaf to melt into heavy palm oil. Richly loaded with hard-shell periwinkles, smoked fish, and cow hide, it represents the epitome of Nigerian celebratory hospitality.
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