Australian Chinese-style Fried Plantain Soup

Ingredients

In this Australian Chinese adaptation of Sopa de platano, the traditional Puerto Rican soup is transformed into a fusion dish by incorporating Chinese flavors and cooking techniques. The original recipe typically uses ripe plantains boiled in a savory broth, while the Australian Chinese version features fried plantains for added texture and sweetness. The use of Chinese spices like ginger and star anise further enhances the flavor profile, giving the soup a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Sopa de platano, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced (about 2 cups / 470ml) 4 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced (about 2 cups / 470ml)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced plantains and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove the plantains from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and star anise. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the spices release their aroma.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Remove the star anise from the pot and discard. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. 5.
   Return the soup to the pot and add the fried plantains. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. 6.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantains — Make sure the plantains are ripe but not overly soft. They should have a yellow skin with some black spots, indicating their sweetness. Avoid using green or unripe plantains as they will not provide the desired flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the soup.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the fried plantains.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more soy sauce or fish sauce for a saltier flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Australian Chinese-style Fried Plantain Soup as a comforting appetizer or a light main course. Accompany it with steamed rice or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro or finely chopped green onions to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve the soup in beautiful ceramic bowls to enhance its visual appeal.