RecipesFijiFijian Falawa

Fijian Falawa

A simple and traditional Fijian dessert made from cassava flour, sugar, and water, steamed in palm or banana leaves, offering a sweet and slightly chewy texture.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings6
DifficultyEasy
Fijian Falawa - Fiji traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2 cups Cassava flour
  • 1 cup Sugar(adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup Water(or as needed to form a dough)
  • 6-8 pieces Palm leaves or Banana leaves(for wrapping)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine the cassava flour and sugar. Gradually add water, mixing until a firm dough forms. The consistency should be firm enough to hold its shape but not too dry.

  2. 2

    Prepare the leaves by wiping them clean. If using dried leaves, soak them in warm water until pliable.

  3. 3

    Take a palmful of the dough and shape it into a rectangular or oval form.

  4. 4

    Wrap each portion of dough securely in a palm or banana leaf, ensuring the ends are well-sealed to prevent leakage during steaming.

  5. 5

    Arrange the wrapped parcels in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam for 30-40 minutes, or until the falawa is firm to the touch.

  6. 6

    Carefully unwrap the falawa and serve warm. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a drizzle of coconut cream.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure the dough is not too wet, as this can make the falawa mushy.
  • If leaves are unavailable, parchment paper or foil can be used as a substitute, though the traditional flavor might be slightly altered.

🔄 Variations

  • Some recipes include a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger for added aroma.
  • A small amount of grated fresh coconut can be mixed into the dough.

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