Palusami
Palusami is a traditional Kiribati dish consisting of taro leaves filled with a mixture of coconut cream, onions, and sometimes fish or corned beef. The parcels are then wrapped in larger leaves (like banana or breadfruit leaves) and baked or steamed until tender, resulting in a creamy and savory dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 18 large Taro leaves(or substitute with spinach or other large leafy greens)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
- 1 cup Grated coconut(fresh or dried)
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(ground)
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme(optional)
- as needed Banana leaves or aluminum foil(for wrapping)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2
In a bowl, combine grated coconut, coconut milk, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Mix well. Add the cooked onion and garlic mixture to the coconut mixture and stir to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- 3
Prepare the leaves: If using fresh taro leaves, wash them thoroughly and remove tough stems. If using banana leaves, clean and soften them by briefly passing them over a flame or steaming.
- 4
Assemble the Palusami: Layer 2-3 taro leaves on top of each other to form a base. Spoon a generous amount of the coconut filling into the center of the leaves.
- 5
Fold the leaves over the filling to create a neat parcel. Wrap the parcel securely in banana leaves or aluminum foil.
- 6
Cook the Palusami: Place the parcels in a steamer basket over simmering water or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C).
💡 Tip: Steaming typically takes 30-40 minutes, while baking takes 45-60 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through. - 7
Serve: Carefully unwrap the Palusami parcels and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Taro leaves can be substituted with spinach, kale, or Swiss chard if unavailable.
- ✓For added protein, corned beef or small pieces of fish can be added to the filling.
- ✓Ensure parcels are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced tomatoes or chili for extra flavor.
- Use different types of fish or chicken in the filling.
- Experiment with different wrapping leaves like breadfruit leaves.