As the rainy season sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of hearty, aromatic soup. Caribbean cuisine offers a variety of traditional soups that are not only warming but also packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Here, we explore three classic recipes: Sancoche, Trini Corn Soup, and Oxtail Soup, each with its unique blend of spices, provisions, and dumplings.
**Sancoche**
This versatile soup can be made vegetarian by substituting beef broth with vegetable broth and adding carrots. The traditional version includes stewing beef, yellow split peas, ochroes, pumpkin, and a medley of provisions like sweet potatoes and cassava. The soup is simmered with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a thick, satisfying broth. Dumplings, made from flour, butter, and baking powder, are added towards the end, floating to the surface when cooked.
**Trini Corn Soup**
A creamy and flavorful soup, Trini Corn Soup features yellow split peas, English potatoes, and fresh corn. The soup is thickened by pureeing the cooked split peas and potatoes, then simmered with coconut milk for added richness. Dumplings and fresh herbs like chadon beni (culantro) complete the dish, making it a comforting meal for chilly evenings.
**Oxtail Soup**
Rich and savory, Oxtail Soup is a Caribbean favorite. Lean oxtail is marinated with herb seasoning, then seared and simmered with garlic, onions, and aromatic vegetables. Pumpkin and provisions are added to the pot, creating a hearty base. Cinnamon dumplings, infused with a hint of spice, are the perfect finishing touch, adding a unique flavor to this deeply satisfying soup.
These soups are not only nourishing but also a celebration of Caribbean culinary heritage. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, they bring warmth and flavor to any table.