Wallis and Futuna-style Coconut Turtle Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Chinese Turtle Soup, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Wallis and Futuna cuisine. The original recipe is transformed by replacing traditional Chinese herbs and spices with local Wallis and Futuna ingredients such as lemongrass, ginger, and lime. Additionally, coconut milk is used instead of the Chinese broth base, adding a creamy and tropical twist to the soup. We alse have the original recipe for Turtle Soup, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) turtle meat, cleaned and diced 500g (1.1 lb) turtle meat, cleaned and diced
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 4 cups (946ml) coconut milk 4 cups (946ml) coconut milk
• 4 cups (946ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (946ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 26g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced turtle meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bruised lemongrass stalks and sliced ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the turtle meat is tender.
4. 4.
   Remove the lemongrass stalks from the pot and discard. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and green beans. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness.
5. 5.
   Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of Wallis and Futuna!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Turtle meat — Ensure that the turtle meat is thoroughly cleaned and diced into small pieces for even cooking. If turtle meat is not available, you can substitute it with chicken or beef.
• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalks by lightly pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release their aromatic oils.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the creamy part is fully incorporated.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier soup, add a small chili pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a heartier meal, serve the soup with steamed rice or crusty bread.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more broth or coconut milk, depending on your preference.
• Garnish the soup with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
• Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Serving advice

Serve the Wallis and Futuna-style Coconut Turtle Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. The vibrant green color of the cilantro and the bright citrus of the lime will add visual appeal to the dish.