Tuvalu Taro Leaf Rolls with Coconut
Tender taro leaves are blanched and then filled with a savory mixture, often including fish or minced meat, and steamed in coconut cream, creating a flavorful and comforting dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12-15 large Taro leaves(fresh, tough stems trimmed)
- 400 ml Coconut cream(full fat)
- 300 g Fish fillets(e.g., tuna or snapper, finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 100 ml Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Blanch the taro leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften them. Immediately plunge into cold water, then pat dry.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the chopped fish, onion, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Lay a taro leaf flat, shiny side down. Place a portion of the fish mixture in the center.
- 4
Fold the sides of the taro leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a spring roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- 5
Arrange the rolled leaves seam-side down in a steamer basket or a pot suitable for steaming.
- 6
In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut cream and water. Pour this mixture over the taro leaf rolls.
- 7
Steam the rolls for 30-40 minutes, or until the taro leaves are tender and the filling is cooked through. Baste occasionally with the coconut cream sauce.
- 8
Serve hot, spooning some of the coconut sauce over each roll.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure taro leaves are thoroughly blanched to remove any oxalic acid, which can cause irritation.
- ✓If fish is unavailable, minced chicken or pork can be used as a substitute.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use only coconut cream and omit the water.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped chilies to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate small, cooked pieces of breadfruit into the filling.