| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins – 1 hour | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 0.3g | 0g | 38g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 17g | 6g | 1.5g | 0.1g |
There’s no comfort food recipe that can touch the soul as deeply as a bubbling pot of Spiced Giant Taro Soup. The combination of root vegetables, warming spices, and a touch of sweet fruit truly bring the essence of Midwestern heartland straight to your table. Born and raised in Nebraska, I have always had a deep appreciation for down-to-earth cooking that maintains the farm-to-table freshness. This hearty soup is a testament to that culinary philosophy.
One of the reasons I love this recipe is how it blends the familiar with the exotic. The hearty Giant Taro, a root vegetable similar to our Western potatoes, brings a lovely, creamy texture to the soup. The warming spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves release a comforting aroma that fills up the entire house. The burst of fresh fruit and the tang of citrus uplift and balance the flavors, creating a symphony of taste in your palate.
Flavor Meets Health
Not only is this Spiced Giant Taro Soup big on flavors, it also packs a nutritious punch. Taro root, at the heart of this dish, is a wonderful source of fiber, vitamin E, B6, and magnesium. It’s thought to aid in digestion and help to reduce blood sugar levels. The warmth from the cinnamon and nutmeg has been linked to various health benefits including anti-inflammatory properties. The vibrant fruit, zest and juice of oranges, give us a boost of antioxidants and vitamin C. Talk about a deliciously wholesome meal!
Zesty Companions
Loving this soup means pairing it with dishes that complement its flavours. A crunchy, fresh salad or a serving of rustic cornbread, like the ones we have on our church potlucks, make a great side. It might also be delightful when served alongside a hearty beef stew, offering a nice contrast of flavors and textures. If you’re someone who enjoys a little spice in your meals, feel free to give this soup a zingy companion—a spice-rubbed grilled chicken or a chilli-laden stir fry.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you should definitely try your hand at our Spiced Giant Taro Soup. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that pays tribute to traditional heartland cooking, while also ushering in a bit of international flair. I invite you all to dig into the flavors of the Midwest with this delectable recipe. Happy Cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 1 Giant Taro root, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup of mixed fruits (apple, pear, and banana)
- 6 cups of water
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground clove
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
- Salt to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Method
Step One
First, take the Giant Taro root that has been peeled and chopped, and place it in a large pot. Add in the 6 cups of water.
Step Two
Then, add in the mixed fruits (apple, pear, and banana) to the pot. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Step Three
Next, add the 3 cinnamon sticks, zested and juiced orange, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of ground clove, and sugars into the pot. Stir well to combine these ingredients.
Step Four
Light the stove and let the mixture come to a boil over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes or until the taro root is tender.
Step Five
After the soup has simmered, add in the 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract and salt. Stir well to combine, then remove the pot from the stove.
Step Six
Lastly, serve the soup hot and garnish it with the fresh mint leaves. Enjoy your Spiced Giant Taro Soup!
