Calalou Chez Clara Soup

Calalou Chez Clara Soup Recipe - Authentic Haitian Delight

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Calalou Chez Clara Soup is a traditional Caribbean dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. This hearty soup is made with fresh greens, okra, onions, and ham, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Calalou Chez Clara Soup has its origins in the Caribbean, where it is a popular dish enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fresh spinach or callaloo greens
1 lb (454 g) okra, topped and tailed
1 medium-size onion, coarsely chopped
1 bouquet garni: scallions, fresh thyme, and parsley
salt and pepper to taste
0.5 scotch bonnet-type chile, minced
6.5 cup water
1 clove garlic, minced
0.5 lb (227 g) cooked ham, cut into 0.25 inch dice
juice of 3 limes

How to prepare

Clean the spinach or callaloo thoroughly, and remove the woody central stems.
Chop the okra and the callaloo and place them in a large saucepan.
Add the onion, bouquet garni, salt and black pepper, chile, and water.
Bring to a boil and cook, covered, over a medium flame for 30 minutes.
Remove the mixture from the heat and pass it through a food mill until it becomes a smooth purée.
Return it to the saucepan and add the garlic, ham, and lime juice.
Continue to cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes.
Do not allow the soup to come to a second boil or it will lose its texture.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add shrimp or chicken for a different protein option.
Use coconut milk for a creamy twist on the traditional recipe.
Add additional vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to clean the greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

- Cooking the soup over a medium flame allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.

- Avoid overcooking the soup, as this can cause the texture to become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Calalou Chez Clara Soup can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or bread. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or appetizer before a larger meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop the ingredients finely to ensure even cooking.

- Use a food mill to create a smooth purée for the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Spinach can be used as a substitute for callaloo.

- Turkey bacon can be used in place of ham for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

Calalou Chez Clara Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a slice of lime and a sprig of parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Calalou Chez Clara Soup pairs well with a side of rice, plantains, or bread. A glass of fruity white wine or a tropical fruit juice complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Calalou Chez Clara Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Calalou Chez Clara Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Calalou Chez Clara Soup contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Calalou Chez Clara Soup contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Calalou Chez Clara Soup is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains ham, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Calalou Chez Clara Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Calalou Chez Clara Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, watching my mother and grandmother whip up delicious meals in the kitchen.

One day, as I was wandering through the local market, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming stall run by a woman named Clara. She was a local legend in the community, known for her incredible culinary skills and the mouth-watering dishes she would create. I stood there, mesmerized as she expertly chopped vegetables, stirred pots bubbling with fragrant spices, and effortlessly transformed humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

I struck up a conversation with her, and she took a liking to me immediately. She could see the spark of curiosity and passion for cooking in my eyes, and she offered to teach me some of her most prized recipes. I was overjoyed at the opportunity and eagerly accepted her invitation to come to her home the next day to learn the secrets of her famous Calalou Chez Clara Soup.

As I walked into Clara's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of simmering herbs and spices. She handed me an apron and led me to the stove, where a large pot filled with a vibrant green mixture was bubbling away. She explained that Calalou Chez Clara Soup was a traditional Haitian dish made with a mixture of leafy greens, okra, and a blend of aromatic spices.

I watched intently as Clara showed me how to prepare the ingredients, chop the vegetables, and combine them in the pot. She shared with me the importance of using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the key to creating a flavorful broth that would elevate the dish to new heights.

As the soup simmered on the stove, Clara regaled me with stories of her own culinary journey. She had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. She had traveled all over Haiti, learning new techniques and flavors from different regions and incorporating them into her own unique style of cooking.

The soup was finally ready, and Clara ladled out steaming bowls for us to enjoy together. As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting warmth. The Calalou Chez Clara Soup was a symphony of tastes and textures, with the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy notes.

I thanked Clara profusely for sharing her recipe with me, and she smiled warmly, telling me that I had a natural talent for cooking and that she believed I would go far in the culinary world. I left her home that day with a heart full of gratitude and a head full of inspiration.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect the recipe for Calalou Chez Clara Soup, adding my own unique twists and flavors to make it my own. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I make for my family and friends to share the taste of Haiti and the love that goes into every spoonful.

As I look back on that fateful day in Clara's kitchen, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and forge connections that last a lifetime. I am eternally grateful to Clara for passing down her knowledge and passion for cooking, and for inspiring me to follow my own culinary dreams. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that can happen when we open ourselves up to new experiences and embrace the joy of cooking.