Palauan Fruit Bat Soup
A traditional Palauan delicacy, this soup is made by simmering small fruit bats with ginger, coconut milk, and spices. The bats' diet of nectar and fruits gives their meat a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyChallenging
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 Small fruit bats(cleaned)
- 6 cups Water
- 1 inch piece Fresh ginger(grated)
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 1/2 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- e.g., turmeric, chili Optional spices(to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Thoroughly wash the cleaned fruit bats.
- 2
In a large pot, combine the bats, water, grated ginger, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil.
- 3
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the bats are tender.
- 4
Stir in the coconut milk, salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 6
Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the fruit bats are sourced ethically and legally.
- ✓The sweetness of the bats' meat can vary depending on their diet.
- ✓Adjust the spices to your personal preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add local vegetables like taro or sweet potato to the soup.
- A splash of lime juice can add brightness.