Yapese Fish and Taro Leaf Rolls
Tender white fish and aromatic herbs are wrapped in softened taro leaves and steamed, creating a flavorful and healthy parcel. This dish highlights the fresh seafood and local produce common in Yapese cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g White fish fillets(such as snapper or grouper, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 8 large Taro leaves(fresh or frozen, tough stems removed)
- 200 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 small Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(freshly grated)
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 100 ml Water(for steaming)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh taro leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to soften. If using frozen, thaw them. Pat dry.
💡 Tip: Blanching makes the leaves pliable and easier to work with. - 2
In a bowl, combine the fish pieces, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to coat the fish.
💡 Tip: Avoid over-mixing to prevent the fish from breaking apart. - 3
Lay out two softened taro leaves, overlapping them slightly to form a larger surface. Place about 1/4 of the fish mixture in the center of the leaves.
- 4
Pour about 2 tablespoons of coconut milk over the fish mixture. Fold the taro leaves tightly around the filling to create a sealed parcel. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
💡 Tip: Tuck in the sides to ensure no filling leaks out during steaming. - 5
Place the parcels in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Add about 100ml of water to the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom of the steamer basket.
💡 Tip: You can also use a large pot with a tight-fitting lid and a steaming rack. - 6
Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the taro leaves are tender. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Carefully open the parcels to avoid steam burns.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Freshness of the fish is key to this dish's flavor.
- ✓Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- ✓If taro leaves are unavailable, large banana leaves can be used as a substitute, though they will impart a different flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped chili for a spicy kick.
- Include other local herbs like lemongrass or pandan leaves for added aroma.
- A small amount of grated taro can be mixed with the fish for a thicker filling.