Tongan Taro Leaf and Beef Bake
Lu Pulu
A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender corned beef and nutrient-rich taro leaves, slow-cooked in creamy coconut milk. This 'Lu Pulu' is a staple in Tongan cuisine, often prepared communally and baked in an umu (traditional underground oven).
๐ง Ingredients
- 10 medium Taro leaves(fresh or frozen, stems removed)
- 1 can (approx. 340g) Corned beef(drained)
- 1 cup (240ml) Coconut milk(full-fat)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise(optional, for richness)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- Aluminum foil
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
If using fresh taro leaves, wash them thoroughly and remove the tough stems. If using frozen, thaw them.
๐ก Tip: Taro leaves can be itchy; wear gloves when handling them if you have sensitive skin. - 2
In a bowl, combine the drained corned beef, chopped onion, coconut milk, and mayonnaise (if using). Mix well.
- 3
Season the corned beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4
Lay out two taro leaves, one on top of the other, to form a natural wrapper. Place a portion of the corned beef mixture in the center of the leaves.
๐ก Tip: Overlap the leaves to ensure the filling is well-contained. - 5
Fold the taro leaves to create a neat parcel, encasing the filling completely. Wrap the parcel tightly in aluminum foil.
๐ก Tip: Double-wrap with foil if you are concerned about leaks. - 6
Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all the filling and taro leaves are used.
- 7
Bake in a preheated oven at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the taro leaves are tender and the flavors have melded.
๐ก Tip: Traditionally cooked in an 'umu' (underground oven) for a smoky flavor. - 8
Carefully unwrap the parcels and serve hot, typically with boiled root vegetables like taro, yams, or sweet potatoes.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf taro leaves are unavailable, large spinach or Swiss chard leaves can be substituted, though the flavor will be different.
- โFor a richer flavor, some recipes include a tablespoon of butter in each parcel.
- โThe cooking time may vary depending on the size of the parcels and your oven.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a small amount of chopped chili to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Some variations include adding a layer of sliced onion or tomato within the taro leaves.