Fijian Duruka and Coconut Curry
A fragrant and creamy curry featuring duruka (Fijian asparagus) simmered in coconut milk with aromatic spices. This dish highlights the unique flavor of duruka, a seasonal vegetable highly prized in Fijian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Duruka(trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp Coconut oil
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Red chili(finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste))
- 2 tsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 400 ml Full-fat coconut milk(1 can)
- 100 ml Water
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the duruka by trimming off the outer sheath and cutting into 2-inch pieces. If using fresh duruka, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain.
- 2
Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped red chili (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 5
Add the prepared duruka to the pot and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
- 6
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the duruka is tender. Stir occasionally.
- 7
Season with salt to taste. If the curry is too thick, add a little more water. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This curry is excellent served with steamed rice or boiled cassava.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Duruka is a seasonal vegetable, so it might not be available year-round. Frozen duruka is a good alternative.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili to your preference for heat.
- ✓For a richer curry, use coconut cream instead of coconut milk.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like diced pumpkin, potatoes, or green beans.
- For a non-vegetarian version, add chicken or fish pieces along with the duruka.