Lifestyle
Taro: What Is It, And Recipes To Bring It To Life
4min read
This starchy root-crop might sometimes be compared to potatoes by those not in the know, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Its sweet undertones are reflected in its versatility, being the star of sweet and savoury dishes alike. When exploring other culinary cultures outside of British cuisine, you may find it featuring as a delicious, main event.
What is a taro
The tarot plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, and grows edible corn. It’s believed to be one of the earliest cultivated crops and can be found across the globe today wherever it’s warm enough – with top producing countries being Nigeria, China and Cameroon.
Photo credits: vegetables.co.nz
What is taro purée?
Taro purée is a popular and traditional dessert in Fujineese cuisine (a native cuisine from China’s Fujian province) and Teochew cuisine (which is from the Chaoshan region of Eastern China). You’ll usually find it topped with toasted sesame seeds, candied ginkgo, red dates, or even melon seeds.
Many variations of this dessert exist, ranging from easy-to-make – like this quick recipe from Kauli – all the way up to show-stoppingly extravagant and special family recipes – like this from Travelling Foodie.
Photo credits: Travelling Foodie
Vegan taro recipes
We love this taro vichyssoise with lovage miso purée from Kindred Kitchen. It’s perfectly warming and nutritious with every mouthful, just be sure to use plant-based butter in this recipe and it’s bound to become a favourite in your household.
Photo credits: Kindred Kitchen
After something a little heartier? Then you should try this recipe for crispy taro fritters from Rhian’s Recipes – they’re healthy yet satisfying, and easy to make! We think they’d go perfectly with Val’s vegan crispy rice on the side.
Photo credits: Rhian's Recipes
This Vrat wali Arbi recipe from Green Bowl 2 Soul makes a deliciously spiced vegetable dish that the author of the recipe, Vandana, has often prepared and eaten during the Hindi festival Navrati. It looks delicious and like a great culinary celebration.
Photo credits: Green Bowl 2 Soul
If you’re still hungry for more, then check out this recipe for lemon thyme and taro root vegan Eddo from Very Vegan Val. They’re simmered in a garlicky umami bath, then brought to life with lemon and thyme. It’s simple, stunning and guaranteed to steal the show.
Photo credits: Very Vegan Val
By Fabian Jackson
Fabian is one of our lovely Content Marketing Assistants who loves writing almost as much as he loves coffee, old episodes of Escape to the Country (no judgement here), and cooking up a storm in his kitchen.
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