RecipesFijiFijian Sago Pudding

Fijian Sago Pudding

A simple yet delightful dessert made from sago pearls cooked in coconut milk and sweetened, often served with a palm sugar syrup. It's a creamy and comforting treat with a unique texture.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyEasy
Fijian Sago Pudding - Fiji traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 cup Sago pearls
  • 4 cups Water
  • 400 ml Coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup Sugar(or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Palm sugar syrup(optional, for serving)
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1 piece Pandan leaf(tied in a knot, optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse the sago pearls thoroughly under cold water.

    💡 Tip: Rinsing helps remove excess starch.
  2. 2

    In a saucepan, combine the rinsed sago pearls, water, and pandan leaf (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sago pearls are translucent and have a gelatinous consistency. Remove the pandan leaf.

    💡 Tip: Stirring is crucial to prevent the sago from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  4. 4

    Add the coconut milk, sugar, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.

  5. 5

    Remove from heat. Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or a larger serving dish.

    💡 Tip: The pudding will thicken further as it cools.
  6. 6

    Serve warm or chilled. Drizzle with palm sugar syrup (if using) just before serving.

    💡 Tip: Palm sugar syrup adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness.

💡 Pro Tips

  • If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
  • For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of coconut milk and condensed milk.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  • Garnish with toasted shredded coconut or fresh tropical fruits like mango or papaya.

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