Welcome to the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean Netherlands! Yuana Soup, a traditional dish from this region, encapsulates the essence of Caribbean cuisine with its rich blend of indigenous ingredients and culinary influences. This hearty soup is not only a celebration of local flavors but also a testament to the diverse cultural heritage of the Caribbean islands.

Infused with aromatic spices, tender yuana meat, and an array of vegetables, this soup is a comforting and nourishing meal that brings people together around the dining table. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the recipe for this beloved Caribbean delicacy, perfect for warming the soul on any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized iguana, cleaned and chopped into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups pumpkin, diced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1- Rinse the iguana meat thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or skin, then chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

2- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

3- Add the chopped iguana meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4- Stir in the diced tomatoes, bell pepper, carrots, potatoes, and pumpkin. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

5- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the iguana meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

7- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.

8- Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving. Ladle the Caribbean Netherlands Yuana Soup into bowls and garnish with lime wedges.

9- Enjoy this traditional Caribbean delicacy hot, accompanied by crusty bread or rice, and savor the unique flavors of the Caribbean Netherlands!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Caribbean Netherlands Yuana Soup recipe:

Iguana meat (per 100g):

• Calories: 89 kcal
• Protein: 20.6g
• Fat: 0.6g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Rich in protein and low in fat, iguana meat provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.

Olive oil (per 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 119 kcal
• Fat: 13.5g
• Saturated Fat: 1.9g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 9.9g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.4g

benefits: A good source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Onion (per 100g):

• Calories: 40 kcal
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 9.3g
• Fiber: 1.7g

benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. They also contain vitamins C and B6, as well as dietary fiber.

Garlic (per 3 cloves):

• Calories: 13 kcal
• Protein: 0.6g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0.2g

benefits: Garlic is known for its medicinal properties, including its ability to boost the immune system and lower blood pressure. It contains sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Tomatoes (per 100g):

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Protein: 0.9g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 3.9g
• Fiber: 1.2g

benefits: Tomatoes are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

Bell pepper (per 100g):

• Calories: 31 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2.1g

benefits: Bell peppers are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost immunity and reduce inflammation. They also contain fiber and vitamin A, which are beneficial for eye health.

Carrots (per 100g):

• Calories: 41 kcal
• Protein: 0.9g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 9.6g
• Fiber: 2.8g

benefits: arrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and is essential for vision health. They also contain fiber, vitamins C and K, and potassium.

Potatoes (per 100g):

• Calories: 77 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 2.2g

benefits: Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy, as well as vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They are also a good source of antioxidants like flavonoids.

Pumpkin (per 100g):

• Calories: 26 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 6.5g
• Fiber: 0.5g

benefits: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like beta-carotene. It also contains fiber and potassium, which are beneficial for heart health and digestion.

Chicken or vegetable broth (per cup):

• Nutritional values vary based on the specific type and brand of broth used. It typically contains minimal calories and fat, while providing some protein and various vitamins and minerals.

benefits: Broth provides hydration and can help replenish electrolytes. It also contains protein, vitamins, and minerals depending on the ingredients used in the broth.

The nutritional values for the remaining ingredients (bay leaf, dried thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and lime wedges) are negligible as they are used in small quantities or for seasoning.