Solomon Islands Chicken and Taro Root in Coconut Milk
A comforting and hearty stew featuring tender chicken pieces and starchy taro root simmered in rich coconut milk, seasoned with local aromatics.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(bone-in, skin-on, cut into pieces)
- 600 g Taro root(peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Chili(deseeded and finely chopped (optional))
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 200 ml Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 3
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped chili (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Return the chicken to the pot. Add the taro root chunks, coconut milk, and water. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the taro root is mostly submerged. - 5
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the taro root is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 6
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, spooning the sauce over the chicken and taro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If taro root is unavailable, sweet potato can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be different.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use only coconut milk and no water.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili to your spice preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add leafy greens like spinach or taro leaves in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Incorporate other root vegetables such as cassava or yam.
- A squeeze of lime juice at the end can add brightness.