Yam and Greens in Coconut Milk
A comforting and nutritious dish featuring tender chunks of yam simmered in creamy coconut milk with a medley of local greens, offering a taste of traditional Papua New Guinean home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Yam(peeled and cut into 2cm cubes)
- 4 cups Mixed greens(such as spinach, taro leaves (rourou), or aibika, roughly chopped)
- 1 can (400ml) Coconut milk
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the cubed yam in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the yam is fork-tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In the same pot (or a clean one), heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the mixed greens to the pot and stir until they begin to wilt.
- 5
Pour in the coconut milk, add the cooked yam, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the greens to become fully tender.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Do not overcook the yam in the initial boiling stage, as it will continue to cook in the coconut milk.
- ✓Use a variety of greens for a more complex flavor and texture.
- ✓If you can't find taro leaves, spinach or other leafy greens can be substituted.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chunks of chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
- Include other root vegetables like sweet potato or cassava.
- A pinch of chili can be added for a touch of heat.