Calalou de Légumes
Vegetable Calalou
A hearty and nutritious vegetable stew, 'Calalou' is a staple in Seychellois households, made with a variety of local greens and simmered to a rich, comforting consistency. It's often served as a side dish or a light main.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Spinach(fresh, roughly chopped)
- 300 g Taro leaves (or other local greens like 'bred songe')(fresh, roughly chopped)
- 200 g Okra(trimmed and sliced)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 200 ml Vegetable broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Roughly chop the spinach and taro leaves. Trim and slice the okra. Chop the onion and tomatoes.
💡 Tip: Ensure greens are well-rinsed to remove any grit. - 2
Heat cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the chopped spinach, taro leaves, and sliced okra. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: The greens will wilt down significantly. - 5
Cover the pot and let the calalou simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: The okra will help to thicken the stew naturally. - 6
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot as a side dish with rice, fish, or meat, or as a light vegetarian main course.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If taro leaves are unavailable, use a mix of spinach and other leafy greens like kale or chard.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a small piece of dried fish or a ham hock can be added during simmering (remove before serving).
- ✓The consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less liquid.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like diced pumpkin or sweet potato for a heartier stew.
- A touch of curry powder can be added for a subtle spiced flavor.