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Taro: What Is It, And Recipes To Bring It To Life

by Fabian Jackson

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. 

taro corn

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. 

taro paste

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.

taro food

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.

taro fritters

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.

taro dish

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.

taro. dish

Photo credits: Very Vegan Val

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By Fabian Jackson
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.

Read more from Fabian


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