Vakalolo
A traditional Fijian dessert made from grated cassava and coconut, sweetened and steamed, often served with a rich caramel coconut sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Cassava(peeled and finely grated)
- 1 cup Grated coconut(freshly grated preferred)
- 1 cup Brown sugar(packed, adjust to taste)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1/4 cup Coconut milk(or coconut water, for moisture)
- pinch Salt
- Banana leaves(or aluminum foil, for wrapping)
- for steaming Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Peel and finely grate the cassava. Squeeze out any excess liquid.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the grated cassava, grated coconut, brown sugar, grated ginger, coconut milk (or water if needed for moisture), and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Adjust sugar to your preference.
- 3
Prepare the wrapping: If using banana leaves, soften them by briefly passing them over a flame or dipping them in hot water. Cut into manageable squares. If using aluminum foil, cut into similar-sized squares.
- 4
Portion the mixture: Place about 3-4 tablespoons of the cassava mixture onto each banana leaf or foil square. Fold the leaves/foil to create neat, sealed parcels. Ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent leakage.
- 5
Steam the vakalolo: Place the parcels in a steamer basket over boiling water, or in a pot with a few inches of boiling water. Steam for 45-60 minutes, or until the cassava is tender and cooked through.
- 6
Serve warm. Vakalolo can be enjoyed as is, or with a drizzle of caramel coconut sauce (made by melting brown sugar with coconut cream and simmering until thickened).
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure cassava is cooked thoroughly, as raw cassava can be toxic.
- ✓Adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- ✓If fresh cassava is unavailable, frozen grated cassava can be used.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to the mixture.
- Serve with fresh fruit like mango or pineapple.
- Some variations include adding a small amount of grated taro root.