Songe en Sauce Coco
A comforting and nutritious dish featuring taro root (songe) simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce, often enhanced with aromatics like garlic, ginger, and sometimes small pieces of fish or meat for added flavor. It's a staple in Seychellois households.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Taro root (Songe)(peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/2 inch Ginger(grated)
- 200 ml Fish stock or water
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 100 g Optional: Small pieces of fish or chicken
- 2-3 sprigs Optional: Curry leaves
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel and cut the taro root into bite-sized chunks. Rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- 2
In a pot, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- 3
If using, add the optional fish or chicken pieces and sear them lightly.
- 4
Add the taro root chunks to the pot. Stir in the turmeric powder.
- 5
Pour in the fish stock or water and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the taro root is partially tender.
- 6
Pour in the coconut milk and add the optional curry leaves. Stir well.
- 7
Continue to simmer gently, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the taro root is fully tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 8
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Remove curry leaves before serving. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Taro root can be itchy to handle; wear gloves or rinse your hands thoroughly after peeling.
- ✓Ensure the taro is cooked until tender but not mushy.
- ✓This dish is excellent served with steamed rice or as a side to grilled fish.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of chili for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like sweet potato or cassava.
- A squeeze of lime juice at the end can add a fresh zing.