Callaloo
A rich and creamy soup or stew made primarily from dasheen leaves (taro leaves), okra, coconut milk, and seasoned with aromatic vegetables and spices. It's a staple in Trinidadian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Dasheen leaves (taro leaves)(chopped (or spinach as a substitute))
- 1 lb Okra(sliced)
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) Coconut milk
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 stalks Scallions(chopped)
- 2 sprigs Thyme
- 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, for flavor and mild heat)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 cup Water or vegetable broth(as needed for consistency)
- optional Crab meat or salted cod(for added flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using crab meat or salted cod, prepare it according to recipe instructions (e.g., boil salted cod and flake).
💡 Tip: If using salted cod, ensure it is well-rinsed and desalted. - 2
In a large pot, combine the chopped dasheen leaves (or spinach), sliced okra, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped scallions, thyme sprigs, and the whole scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
- 3
Add the coconut milk and about 1 cup of water or broth. If using crab meat or salted cod, add it now.
💡 Tip: Start with less liquid; you can always add more later to achieve desired consistency. - 4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dasheen leaves are tender and the okra has softened.
- 5
Remove the thyme sprigs and the scotch bonnet pepper (if you don't want it to break down and make the soup too spicy).
💡 Tip: You can prick the scotch bonnet pepper a few times to release more flavor without making it overly hot. - 6
Using an immersion blender, or by transferring to a regular blender in batches, blend the soup until it reaches your desired creamy consistency. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
💡 Tip: For a chunkier callaloo, blend only partially. For a smoother consistency, blend thoroughly. - 7
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the callaloo is too thick, add a little more water or broth until it reaches the desired consistency.
- 8
Serve hot, often with rice, roti, or dumplings.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Dasheen leaves can cause skin irritation, so wear gloves when chopping them.
- ✓If you can't find dasheen leaves, spinach is a good substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- ✓The scotch bonnet pepper adds a subtle aroma and warmth; remove it before blending if you prefer less heat.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cooked crab meat or flaked salted cod for a richer, more traditional flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of pumpkin for added sweetness and body.