About the Recipe
Tropical root vegetables are a cornerstone of many cultural cuisines, particularly in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa. These starchy, nutrient-dense foods—such as yuca, taro, malanga, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and ginger—are rich in flavor, versatile in recipes, and packed with nutrients and antioxidants that support a balanced diet.
Root vegetables are a prime example of how traditional foods can be both delicious and healthy. Their high fiber content supports digestion, while complex carbohydrates provide steady energy. Many tropical roots are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin C - for immune health
- Potassium - for heart and muscle function
- Iron - to prevent anemia, and help blood cells get enough oxygen
- B vitamins - for energy metabolism
For those reconnecting with their cultural heritage, tropical root vegetables are a DELICIOUS way to embrace your culinary traditions while nourishing your body. Plus, their adaptability makes them perfect for stews, curries, fried snacks, or mashed dishes.
Here’s a warming, flavorful Pumpkin Chicken Curry recipe that celebrates tropical flavors and pairs beautifully with root vegetables like yuca or batata.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
¾–1 cup heavy cream
2 lbs chicken (de-boned thighs or breasts)
2 tbsp lard, ghee, or coconut oil
3–4 tbsp ground cumin
1–1 1/2 tbsp grated ginger (this is a root veggie)
3–4 tbsp ground cardamom
1–2 tbsp chili flakes
3–4 tbsp salt
3–4 tbsp paprika (or ground achiote/bija for a nightshade-free option)
1 medium-large red onion, diced (this is a root veggie)
4–5 garlic cloves, minced (this is a root veggie)
Preparation
Step 1
Prepare the Chicken
- Heat the fat of your choice in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken generously with cumin, ginger, cardamom, chili flakes, salt, and paprika.
- Sauté the chicken in the skillet, browning both sides. Set aside in a separate container, leaving whole or cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
Cook the SPICES and HERBS
- In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until soft and translucent.
Step 3
Combine and Simmer
- Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing with the sautéed garlic and onions to soak up the flavors. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Incorporate the pumpkin puree, mixing thoroughly.
Step 4
Final Steps
- Let the curry cook for another 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors are blended well.
Step 5
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the curry over rice, mashed tropical root vegetables [yuca (cassava), batata (white sweet potato), or malanga] or other grains.