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.

🧂 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
Rinse the sago pearls thoroughly under cold water.
💡 Tip: Rinsing helps remove excess starch. - 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
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
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
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
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.