Caribbean green fig (green banana) souse recipe
Looking for a unique and flavorful dish? This green fig souse recipe combines fresh herbs and spices to create a tangy, mouth-watering experience. Read on to discover how to make this delightful dish step-by-step.
Green fig souse is a beloved dish in Caribbean cuisine, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. Despite its name, “green fig” actually refers to green bananas (unripe bananas). This tangy and spicy dish is a staple at gatherings and is celebrated for its refreshing taste and vibrant flavors.
Traditionally, it’s enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal, offering a unique combination of textures and tastes that capture the essence of Caribbean culinary traditions.
This is a great alternative to our other meat souse recipes. It also falls in well with other cutters like geera chicken neck.
Green fig souse has refreshing flavors and nutritional benefits. So, let’s make this dish!
What does green fig souse taste like?
The taste of green fig souse is a delightful mix of tangy, spicy, and savory notes. The blend of tangy lime juice provides a zesty kick, while the scotch bonnet pepper adds a subtle heat without overwhelming the palate.
The green bananas, once boiled, have a slightly starchy texture that absorbs the flavors of the marinade beautifully. The addition of fresh herbs like chadon beni (culantro) and crunchy cucumber slices enhances the overall freshness and complexity of the dish.
How to make green fig souse
Ingredients notes
- Green figs: Green figs play a crucial role and are the star of this dish. They are firm and starchy, making them perfect for boiling and absorbing the flavors of the marinade.
- Lime juice: Essential for giving the souse its signature tanginess. Using freshly squeezed juice is always best for the brightest flavor.
- Chadon beni: Also known as culantro, chadon beni is a key herb in Caribbean cooking, offering a robust, citrusy flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Scotch bonnet pepper: This pepper brings the heat and a fruity flavor. Removing the seeds helps control the spiciness, making the dish more palatable for those sensitive to spice.
- Garlic and onion: These aromatics add depth and savory notes to the souse, balancing the tanginess and heat.
Instructions
1. Prepare the green fig
Start by removing the ends from the green bananas. Wash them thoroughly and place them in a large pot of boiling water with about a tablespoon salt. Cook until tender, which takes about 25 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool completely.
2. Peel and slice
Once cooled, peel the bananas and slice them into 1-inch rounds. Place them in a bowl.
3. Marinate
Cover the banana slices with enough water to submerge all the pieces. Add the lime juice, garlic, onion, chadon beni, scotch bonnet pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Adjust seasoning
Taste the souse and adjust the salt and lime juice to your preference. For extra heat, add more scotch bonnet pepper as desired.
5. Serve
Enjoy your green fig souse chilled or at room temperature. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
Tips
- To make the best green fig souse recipe, ensure that your green bananas are tender but not mushy.
- Cooling them completely before peeling helps maintain their structure.
- Fresh ingredients, especially lime juice and herbs, will enhance the flavor significantly. Always taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
Additional ingredients you can use
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to personalize your green fig souse. Some popular additions include:
- Bell peppers: For added crunch and sweetness.
- Carrots: Thinly sliced for extra texture.
- Green seasoning: A blend of fresh herbs and spices for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chado beni sauce: Use a spoon to add additional flavor
- Pimento peppers: These seasoning peppers would be great for some additional flavor
Storage
Like all other ttypes of souse, it gets better over time as the flavors blend together.
To do this, store your green fig souse in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping it well-covered will help preserve its freshness and flavor.
Souse can last up to 3 days in the fridge, but is really best enjoyed early as possible.
Related recipes
If you enjoyed this green fig souse recipe, you might also like these other delicious Caribbean dishes:
Green fig souse is a delightful and popular Caribbean delicacy that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a light meal, it’s sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and experience the vibrant taste of the Caribbean!
Recipe
Green fig souse recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Remove both ends of the figs and give them a good wash to remove any dirt.
- Bring a large pot filled with water and a tablespoon of salt to a boil.
- Add the figs, and boil until tender. (about 25 minutes).
- Once fork tender, remove from water and allow to cool.
- Once cooled, peel and slice. You can slice into 1” rounds or diagonal slices.
- Place the slices in a large bowl and cover with water in a bowl.
- Add the remaining ingredients of the peppers, cucumber, onions, and garlic.
- Add lime juice and taste for salt and black pepper
- Let sit for at least 10 – 15 minutes for flavors to blend well.
