Palusami Tuna Bake
A savory and comforting baked dish featuring tender taro leaves (palusami) layered with flaked tuna and a rich coconut cream sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust.

🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Taro leaves (palusami)(fresh or frozen, chopped)
- 2 cans (approx. 150g each) Canned tuna in oil(drained)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 400 ml Coconut cream(full fat)
- 100 ml Vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 50 g Breadcrumbs(for topping)
- 1 tbsp Butter or oil(for sautéing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh taro leaves, wash them thoroughly and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess water. Chop finely. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water, then chop.
💡 Tip: Blanching helps to remove any bitterness from fresh taro leaves. - 2
Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the chopped taro leaves to the pan with the onion mixture. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the taro leaves are evenly distributed. - 4
Pour in the coconut cream and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the taro leaves are tender.
- 5
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
💡 Tip: Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. - 6
Flake the drained tuna and gently fold it into the taro leaf mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
💡 Tip: Gentle folding preserves the texture of the tuna. - 7
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
💡 Tip: A layer of breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch. - 8
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
💡 Tip: Keep an eye on the bake to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning. - 9
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: Resting allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg.
- ✓If you can't find taro leaves, spinach or Swiss chard can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be different.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some cooked diced breadfruit to the mixture for extra substance.
- Incorporate some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with grated cheese in addition to breadcrumbs.