| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 2g | 60g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 7g | 8g | 0.7g |
There are many recipes that affirm my love for cooking, and one of them is certainly the Dulse and Potato soup. It is a testament to my love for merging my Southern and West African cooking roots, a delightful offering from my Afro-Southern fusion repertoire, blending the comfort of Southern cuisine with a tangy twist.
The Inspiration Behind The Recipe
Dulse, a sea vegetable with a rich tapestry of nutrients and a unique salty tang, is traditionally used extensively in Irish cuisine. Having grown up in Atlanta, my first encounter with this remarkable ingredient seemed outlandish, much like being a lawyer in a kitchen. Yet, as someone who had always been drawn towards the tantalizing world of culinary arts, I embraced it wholeheartedly. Melding it with a solid anchor of Southern comfort food – the humble potato – felt like creating a symphonic fusion of my Nigerian heritage with my Southern upbringing.
Health Benefits Of Dulse and Potato Soup
This recipe is not just delightful to the palate, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. Dulse is a fantastic source of fiber, protein, and multiple vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin B-12. Combined with potatoes, a natural source of Vitamin C and Potassium, and an array of vegetables like onion, celery, and carrots, each serving of this soup is pretty much a wholesome meal in itself.
Potential health benefits of this soup include improved vision from Vitamin A, an immunity boost from Vitamin C, and enriched overall body function from high fiber and protein content. It’s a delightful choice for health-conscious gourmets as well as those simply looking for a unique culinary experience.
A Harmonious Addition to Your Meal
In terms of pairings, this soup is versatile and blends seamlessly with a variety of dishes. If you’re looking to stick to the Southern theme, consider serving it alongside cornbread, a timeless partner to soup. Alternatively, a West African fried rice dish could add a delightful contrast to your meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or just cooking for yourself, the Dulse and Potato Soup is an invitation to a meal that is not only nourishing but also layered with augmented flavor profiles.
As someone donned in the rope of culinary liberation, it’s hard not to see why Dulse and Potato Soup holds a special place in my recipe diary. It replicates the warmth of my Southern roots with the spiciness of my West African lineage and, in the process, creates an unforgettable culinary journey. Healthy, tasty, and rich in texture and flavor, it is truly a vibrant celebration of Afro-Southern fusion cuisine.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup Dulse, chopped
- 1 large Onion, diced
- 3 stalks Celery, chopped
- 2 large Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 pounds Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups Vegetable Broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground Black Pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 Bay leaves
Method
Step One
Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the diced onion. Cook the onion until it becomes transparent and soft.
Step Two
Add the 3 chopped celery stalks and 2 chopped carrots to the pot with the onions. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
Step Three
Next, add the chopped dulse and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients and continue to cook for a further 2-3 minutes.
Step Four
Add the diced russet potatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine them with the other veggies and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the potatoes start to soften.
Step Five
Add the 6 cups of vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, salt to taste, and 2 Bay leaves. Stir well to combine.
Step Six
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, until the potatoes are fully cooked and fork-tender.
Step Seven
Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you like chunkier soup, then only blend a small portion. However, if you prefer a smoother soup, continue to blend until all chunks are gone.
Step Eight
Once the soup is at your desired consistency, give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Dulse and Potato Soup.
