Baked Taro (Roots)

Taro root, a delicious and nutritious vegetable, can become the star of your meal due to its unique texture and refined taste. We start by washing the taro root well under a stream of cold water, ensuring that we remove any impurities or residues. After cleaning, we cut the root into large pieces to facilitate even cooking. I prefer to steam it to retain as many nutrients as possible and to achieve a more pleasant texture. If you choose the classic method, you can boil it whole, but it is important not to overcook it. When a fork or knife easily pierces the root, you know it is ready. Overcooking can lead to a crumbly consistency, which is not desirable.

After the taro root is boiled, we let it cool slightly, then peel it, being careful not to lose its fine pulp. Now it is time to prepare the spice mix that will transform this simple ingredient into a delicacy. In a dry pan, we add mustard seeds and heat them over medium heat, stirring constantly. It’s fascinating to see how the seeds start to 'pop', indicating that their aroma is intensifying. As soon as the seeds are lightly roasted, we add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and the garlic cut into large pieces. This mixture will add a robust flavor to our dish.

Once the garlic becomes aromatic, it’s time to add other preferred spices, which may include cumin, paprika, or even curry, depending on your preferences. We turn off the heat and let the flavors blend. Now, we pour this oil and spice mixture over the taro pieces, mixing well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. We then transfer everything to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. We preheat the oven to the highest temperature and place the tray inside, allowing the taro root to brown and become crispy.

Alternatively, if you prefer a quicker method or do not have access to an oven, you can use a wok. In the spiced oil over medium heat, brown the taro pieces until they turn golden and crispy. This option will add an even more interesting texture to the dish. Regardless of the method chosen, the result will be a savory dish, full of flavor, and perfect to be served as a side dish or as a vegetarian main course. Enjoy every bite of this simple yet flavorful dish!