If there is one way to bring people together, it's with food; which is why Thanksgiving is a favorite for many.  There is a mixture of love, laughter, appreciation and most importantly a blend of new and traditional dishes.  Most families celebrate with menu items such as a turkey, ham, and mac and cheese, but why not spice things up this year with some island flavor?

You may not be able to escape to the Caribbean which is why we will bring a piece of it to you.  We wanted to share a special Caribbean style recipe that includes ingredients used as part of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.  It’s easy, fun, and will have your friends and family asking for more.

Sandals Style Sweet Potato Soup

Cooking Time: 30 minutes 

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 leeks, halved, washed, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 long red chili, deseeded, chopped
• 800g sweet potato, peeled, cubed
• 600g carrots, chopped
• 5 cups salt-reduced vegetable stock
• 1/3 cup coriander leaves, chopped
• 1/3 cup light thickened cream
• crusty bread, to serve

Method

1. Heat oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan over medium-high heat. Add leek and cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes or until soft. Add cumin, cinnamon and chili. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until aromatic.
2. Add potato and carrot. Stir to coat in leek mixture. Add stock, cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Remove pan from heat.
3. Blend or process soup, in batches, until smooth. Return to pan over low heat until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in coriander. Spoon into bowls and drizzle with cream. Serve with crusty bread.

Notes

• Variation: You could replace the sweet potato with 800g butternut pumpkin.