Pulaka Soup
A hearty and comforting soup made with pulaka (swamp taro), coconut milk, and aromatic spices, offering a taste of traditional Tuvaluan sustenance.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pulaka (swamp taro)(peeled and cubed)
- 2 cups Coconut milk
- 4 cups Water
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 Green onions(sliced, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash the pulaka root thoroughly and peel off the skin. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 2
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- 3
Add the cubed pulaka to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Add salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- 5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the pulaka is tender when pierced with a fork.
- 6
Adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If pulaka is unavailable, regular taro root or even sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute.
- ✓Wear gloves when handling raw taro as it can irritate the skin.
- ✓For added flavor, a tablespoon of curry powder or turmeric can be added when sautéing the aromatics.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add small chunks of cooked chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
- A pinch of chili flakes can be added for a touch of heat.