This comforting, veggie-forward dish is a true gem. Simple and robust with rich flavors, Callaloo is another fun addition to our roster of inclusive recipes we’re introducing in our programs. Rooted in African and Caribbean foodways, Callaloo traditionally stars taro leaves and pumpkin. This version, adapted from Brigid Washington’s Trini Callaloo, swaps in spinach, collard greens and butternut squash—blending flavors and ingredients reminiscent of the Caribbean and Southern diaspora.
Let us know if you try this at home + tag us @sylviacenter.
Prep Time: 50 mins | Serves: 8-10
Notes: dairy-free, gluten-free
Ingredients
4 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
4 scallions, thinly sliced
2 bunch cilantro leaves & stems, finely chopped (1 bunch reserved for garnish)
2 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 bunch collard greens, stems removed, leaves thinly sliced
4 C baby spinach
1 jalapeño, finely chopped
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces (see ingredient substitutions below)
2 x 14 fl oz can unsweetened coconut milk
1 tsp black pepper
Kosher salt
2 limes, cut into wedges
Method
- Heat oil in a tall, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until softened and translucent, about 1 min. Add the scallions, cilantro and thyme, and cook, stirring, for another minute.
- Stir in the collard greens and spinach, and cook until slightly wilted, around 1 min. Add the jalapeño, squash, coconut milk and black pepper. Stir well. Season with salt. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot and simmer until the squash is tender and greens are wilted and softened, 35–40 mins.
- Using a stick blender, purée the Callaloo in the pot until smooth and thick. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Squeeze over lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve with freshly cooked rice.
Adapted from Brigid Washington’s Trini Callaloo on Bon Appetit.
| Ingredients | Substitution |
| Collard greens | Lacinato or curly kale |
| Fresh thyme | Dried thyme |
| Butternut squash | Pre-peeled & cut butternut squash chunks |
