Solomon Islands Taro Root and Pork Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring tender chunks of pork and starchy taro root, simmered in a rich coconut milk broth with aromatic local spices. This dish is a staple in many Solomon Islands households, offering comfort and sustenance.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 1 kg Taro root(peeled and cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 800 ml Coconut milk(full fat)
- 2 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 small Chili(finely chopped (optional, for heat))
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 500 ml Water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp Lime juice(freshly squeezed)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork cubes over medium-high heat until golden on all sides. Remove pork and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the turmeric powder and chopped chili (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, then return the pork to the pot.
- 4
Add the cubed taro root, coconut milk, and water or broth. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure taro is fully submerged in liquid. - 5
Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the taro is cooked through and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld. - 6
Stir in the fresh lime juice just before serving.
💡 Tip: Lime juice brightens the flavors.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If taro root is unavailable, sweet potato can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be different.
- ✓For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked taro against the side of the pot.
- ✓Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred level of spice.
🔄 Variations
- Add leafy greens like spinach or local greens (like bele) in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Incorporate other root vegetables such as cassava or yam alongside the taro.