Solomon Islands Smoked Fish with Taro and Greens
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring smoked fish, tender taro root, and nutrient-rich greens, often cooked in a traditional earth oven or over an open fire. This recipe adapts it for modern kitchens while retaining its authentic essence.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Whole fish (e.g., snapper, grouper)(cleaned and scaled)
- 500 g Taro root(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 300 g Leafy greens (e.g., spinach, taro leaves, water spinach)(washed and roughly chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 small Chili pepper(deseeded and finely chopped (optional))
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- Banana leaves or foil(for wrapping)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fish: Score the fish on both sides. Rub with salt and pepper. If smoking traditionally, prepare your smoking pit. For this recipe, we will bake it to achieve a similar flavor profile.
💡 Tip: Ensure the fish is well-cleaned for the best flavor. - 2
Parboil the taro root chunks in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- 3
In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili pepper (if using).
💡 Tip: Adjust chili to your spice preference. - 4
Prepare the wrapping: Lay out large pieces of banana leaves (if using, softened by briefly passing over a flame or soaking in hot water) or aluminum foil. Place a portion of the parboiled taro, some of the onion-garlic-ginger mixture, and a handful of greens in the center of each leaf/foil.
- 5
Place a portion of the fish on top of the greens. Pour some coconut milk over the fish and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Don't overfill the wraps. - 6
Carefully wrap the banana leaves or foil to create sealed parcels. If using banana leaves, tie them securely with kitchen twine or strips of banana leaf. If using foil, crimp the edges tightly.
- 7
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the taro is tender. Alternatively, cook in a steamer or over a low heat in a pot with a little water for about 45 minutes.
💡 Tip: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the fish and thickness of the taro. - 8
Carefully unwrap the parcels. Serve hot, spooning any accumulated juices over the fish, taro, and greens.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoky flavor without traditional smoking, you can lightly grill the fish before wrapping and baking.
- ✓If taro leaves are unavailable, spinach or other sturdy greens can be substituted.
- ✓Adjust the amount of coconut milk based on how moist you prefer the dish.
🔄 Variations
- Add sliced sweet potato along with the taro.
- Incorporate small pieces of pork belly for added richness.
- A squeeze of lime juice before serving can add a bright citrus note.