5 tasty ways to cook with taro leaves
What's the story
Taro leaves are a versatile ingredient used in various cuisines across the globe. Famous for their unique texture and earthy flavor, they can be incorporated into numerous dishes. Not only do taro leaves add an interesting taste to your dish, cooking with them also has its nutritional benefits, since the leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals. Here are five exciting ways to cook with taro leaves.
Stew
Taro leaf stew
Taro leaf stew makes for a comforting dish as it combines tender leaves with coconut milk and spices. The creamy texture of coconut milk balances the slight bitterness of taro leaves, yielding a harmonious blend of flavors. To make this stew, simmer chopped taro leaves in coconut milk with onions, garlic, and spices of your choice till the leaves are tender. It pairs well with rice or flatbreads.
Rolls
Stuffed taro leaves rolls
Stuffed taro leaf rolls are an interesting twist on traditional stuffed vegetables. The large size of taro leaves makes them perfect for wrapping fillings such as spiced lentils or rice mixtures. To make these rolls, blanch the taro leaves briefly to soften them before wrapping your desired filling inside. Steam or bake the rolls until cooked through for a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Stir-fry
Taro leaf stir-fry
A quick stir-fry is an excellent way to enjoy the natural flavors of taro leaves, while retaining their nutrients. In this method, saute chopped taro leaves with garlic, ginger, and other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots in a bit of oil until just wilted. Add soy sauce or tamari for seasoning and serve it as a side dish alongside your main course.
Soup
Taro leaf soup
Taro leaf soup is nourishing and delicious, making it an ideal dish for cooler days. To make this soup, cook chopped taro leaves in vegetable broth with tomatoes, onion, and herbs like cilantro or basil for extra aroma. Let the soup simmer until all the ingredients meld together beautifully before serving hot.
Chips
Baked taro leaf chips
Baked taro leaf chips are a healthy snack alternative, with a unique earthy flavor. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, brush each leaf with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for even cooking. Bake for about 15 minutes until crispy to create a satisfying, guilt-free snack for any time of day.