Plantain Soup

Plantain Soup Recipe from the Caribbean and Chile | Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Carrot, Chicken, Cilantro, and More

Region / culture: Caribbean, Chile | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Plantain soup is a delicious and hearty dish that is popular in many Latin American countries. This soup is made with ripe plantains, which are a type of banana that is larger and starchier than the common banana. Plantains are a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and they add a unique flavor and texture to this soup.

History

Plantain soup has its origins in the Caribbean, where plantains are a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. Plantains have been cultivated in the region for centuries and are an important part of the local cuisine. Plantain soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that is often served as a main course or as a side dish with rice and beans.

Ingredients

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery rib, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4.5 cups chicken stock or broth
2 green plantains, peeled, quartered lengthwise & thinly sliced
1 bunch cilantro, stemmed and finely chopped
0.5-1 tsp cumin
1 bay leaf
salt & pepper

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Cook, uncovered, for 3–4 minutes, or until the onions are soft but not brown.
Add 4 cups of chicken stock/broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
Add plantains, most of the cilantro (reserving a few tablespoons for garnish), cumin, and bay leaf.
Season with salt and pepper.
Return to a boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for 40–50 minutes or until the plantains are very tender.
Remove and discard the bay leaf.
Transfer half of the soup to a blender; puree until smooth.
Return to the pan.
If the soup is too thick, add a little more stock/broth.
Season with more salt/cumin if desired.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or yams to the soup for extra heartiness.
Stir in a can of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Top the soup with crispy fried plantain chips for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe plantains for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and more flavorful than green plantains.

- You can adjust the amount of cumin in the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

- For a creamier soup, you can puree all of the soup in a blender instead of just half.

- Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Plantain soup can be served as a main course with a side of rice and beans, or as a starter before a larger meal. You can also garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Puree the soup in batches in a blender for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find plantains, you can use ripe bananas as a substitute.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.

- Substitute ground coriander for cumin if you prefer a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Plantain soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove before serving, adding a little extra broth if needed to thin it out.

Presentation Ideas

Serve plantain soup in colorful bowls and garnish with a swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a few slices of avocado for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for added richness.

Pairing Recommendations

Plantain soup pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a light and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover plantain soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a little extra broth if needed to thin it out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of plantain soup contains approximately 150 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Plantain soup is a rich source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbs. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for fueling your daily activities.

Fats

Plantain soup is a low-fat dish, with each serving containing only 2 grams of fat. This makes it a healthy option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of plantain soup contains approximately 3 grams of protein. While this may not be a high-protein dish, it can still contribute to your daily protein needs.

Vitamins and minerals

Plantain soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe does not contain any common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, if you have specific food allergies, be sure to check the ingredients carefully before preparing the soup.

Summary

Overall, plantain soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in fat and calories but high in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It can be enjoyed as a satisfying meal on its own or as a side dish with other Latin American-inspired dishes.

Summary

Plantain soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients. With its rich blend of flavors and textures, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it on a chilly evening or as a light and satisfying meal any time of year.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Plantain Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the Caribbean. My grandmother, who was an incredible cook, had invited a friend over for dinner and she brought with her a dish that I had never seen before.

As soon as I tasted the soup, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever experienced - the sweetness of the ripe plantains, the warmth of the spices, and the richness of the broth all combined to create a truly unforgettable dish.

I begged my grandmother's friend to share the recipe with me, and she was kind enough to do so. She explained each step in detail, from how to choose the perfect plantains to the precise amount of seasoning to add. I was determined to master this recipe and make it a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Plantain Soup countless times, each batch better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its unique and delicious flavors. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am proud to serve to anyone who walks through my door.

The secret to a great Plantain Soup, I have learned, lies in the quality of the ingredients. The plantains must be perfectly ripe, with a slight give when squeezed and a sweet aroma that fills the kitchen. The broth should be rich and flavorful, made with a combination of chicken stock and coconut milk for a creamy texture.

The spices are what truly make this soup special. A blend of cumin, paprika, and cinnamon adds depth and warmth, while a hint of cayenne pepper gives it a subtle kick. I always make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as I go, adding a little more salt or pepper if needed to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

As I simmer the soup on the stove, the aromas fill the air and bring back memories of my childhood in the Caribbean. I can almost hear the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and feel the warm sun on my skin. This recipe is more than just a dish to me - it is a connection to my past, a reminder of where I come from and the traditions that have shaped me.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to make it my own. Sometimes I will add a handful of diced potatoes for extra heartiness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of acidity. No matter how I choose to make it, the result is always a bowl of comfort and warmth that soothes the soul.

I am grateful to have learned this recipe from my grandmother's friend all those years ago. It has become a beloved part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that I will continue to make and share for years to come. The Plantain Soup is more than just a recipe - it is a piece of my heritage, a taste of home that I will always hold dear.