Dominican cuisine showcases a fusion of African, European, and indigenous flavors. One popular Dominican recipe is Callaloo Soup, a delicious and nutritious dish made with leafy greens and coconut milk. Here’s a concise recipe for Dominican Callaloo Soup:

Ingredients:

• 500 grams callaloo leaves (substitute with spinach or Swiss chard if unavailable), washed and chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 tomato, diced
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Hot pepper sauce or fresh chili peppers for added heat

Instructions:

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomato, dried thyme, and ground allspice. Cook for a minute or two to release the flavors of the spices.
4. Add the callaloo leaves to the pot and cook until they wilt down, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Gradually stir in the coconut milk, ensuring it is well incorporated into the soup.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
8. Optional: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a few dashes of hot pepper sauce or finely chopped chili peppers.
9. Continue simmering the soup for another 5 minutes to let the flavors blend further.
10. Remove the pot from the heat and let the Callaloo Soup cool slightly.
11. Serve the Callaloo Soup hot as a starter or main dish, accompanied by crusty bread or rice.

Note: Callaloo Soup can be customized by adding other vegetables, such as carrots or pumpkin, for added texture and flavor. Adjust the amount of coconut milk based on your preference for creaminess. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Dominican Callaloo Soup!