Samoan Taro Leaf and Coconut Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew made with tender taro leaves simmered in rich coconut milk, often enhanced with onions and sometimes other vegetables or proteins. It's a staple in Samoan cuisine, showcasing the versatility of local ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Young taro leaves(cleaned, tough stems removed, and roughly chopped)
- 800 ml Full-fat coconut milk(two cans)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 cup Water(optional, for thinning)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 200 g Optional protein(e.g., canned corned beef, flaked fish, or chicken, diced)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the taro leaves: Wash them thoroughly, remove any tough stems, and roughly chop them. If using older leaves, blanching them briefly can help tenderize them and reduce any potential itchiness.
💡 Tip: Ensure leaves are young and tender for the best texture. - 2
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped taro leaves, coconut milk, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. If using, add your optional protein.
💡 Tip: Using full-fat coconut milk is crucial for richness and creaminess. - 3
Add water if a thinner consistency is desired. Stir everything together well.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 5
Simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the taro leaves are very tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally.
💡 Tip: The stew is ready when the leaves are soft and the flavors have melded. - 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: This dish is often served as a side with staples like taro, breadfruit, or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use young, tender taro leaves for the best results. If unavailable, spinach or kale can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- ✓Full-fat coconut milk is essential for the creamy texture. Avoid light versions.
- ✓The stew can be made ahead of time and reheats well, often tasting even better the next day.
- ✓For an authentic cooking method, consider wrapping portions in banana leaves and steaming or baking them.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced sweet potato or other root vegetables for a heartier stew.
- Incorporate flaked cooked chicken or fish for added protein.
- A pinch of chili flakes can add a subtle heat.