Cassava Soup: A Warm and Comforting Winter Delight
When the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing better than a warm, hearty soup to bring comfort and warmth to your table. Cassava soup, also known as caldo de mandioca, is a traditional Brazilian dish that combines the creamy texture of cassava with flavorful ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for winter.
Why Cassava Soup?
Cassava is a root vegetable rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent source of energy. It has a naturally creamy texture when cooked, which makes it ideal for soups. Combined with well-seasoned broth, meat, and herbs, this dish is both nourishing and flavorful.
Cassava Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 500g cassava (also known as yuca), peeled and chopped
- 1 liter of water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300g shredded chicken or diced beef (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Cassava
In a large pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the chopped cassava and cook over medium heat until it becomes soft and starts to break apart (about 25-30 minutes).
2. Blend the Cassava
Once the cassava is fully cooked, use a blender to purée it with some of the cooking liquid until smooth and creamy. If needed, add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Seasoning
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and golden brown. If using meat, add it now and cook until fully done.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the blended cassava back into the pot with the sautéed ingredients. Stir well to combine. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Final Touches
For extra creaminess, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot cassava soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with toasted bread or cheese rolls for an extra treat.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
✔ Warm and comforting – Perfect for cold winter days.
✔ Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
✔ Nutrient-rich – Packed with energy and flavor.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite meats or keep it vegetarian.
Next time the temperature drops, treat yourself to a delicious bowl of cassava soup. It's creamy, satisfying, and guaranteed to warm you up!
Have you tried cassava soup before? 🍲❄️