Calabaza soup

6 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
poundsCalabaza squash, peeled & seeded
1eachGreen bell pepper, chopped
1eachGarlic clove, pressed
4eachesScallions, minced
6eachesThyme leaves
4eachesWhole allspice, crushed
1teaspoonCumin
1teaspoonFenugreek
1largeRipe tomato, peeled & chopped
1cupCoconut milk
Salt & pepper
Chili pepper, to taste

Directions

Simmer all the ingredients except the salt, pepper & chili pepper, in 6 cups of water for 1 hour. Strain the liquid into a bowl & allow the solids to cool. Puree the cooled solids.

Return the puree to the soup pot along with the strained liquid.

Simmer, uncovered, until the mixture is reduced to a syrup-like consistency. Add the seasonings while simmering & serve very hot.

VARIATION: Add ½ lb fresh okra after pureeing the vegetables above.

Virginie & George Ebart, "Down-Island Caribbean Cookery"