Taro Leaf and Fish Bake
A comforting and flavorful bake featuring tender taro leaves and flaky white fish, simmered in creamy coconut milk and seasoned with local aromatics.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Taro leaves(fresh or frozen, tough stems removed)
- 400 g White fish fillets(such as snapper or cod, cut into chunks)
- 400 ml Coconut milk(unsweetened)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh taro leaves, wash them thoroughly and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside. If using frozen, thaw and drain.
💡 Tip: Blanching helps to remove any potential bitterness from the taro leaves. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the blanched or thawed taro leaves to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics.
💡 Tip: Ensure the taro leaves are well distributed. - 5
Pour in the coconut milk and water (if using), ensuring the leaves are mostly submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the taro leaves are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
Gently add the fish pieces to the pot. Stir carefully to incorporate them into the taro leaf mixture. Cover and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
💡 Tip: Avoid over-stirring once the fish is added to prevent it from breaking apart too much. - 8
Stir in the lemon juice just before serving.
💡 Tip: Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors. - 9
Serve hot, traditionally with steamed rice or breadfruit.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure taro leaves are properly prepared to avoid itchiness.
- ✓Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- ✓The dish can be made richer by using only coconut milk instead of adding water.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced tomatoes along with the onions for extra flavor and color.
- Incorporate small pieces of corned beef or other preserved meats for a heartier dish.
- A pinch of chili flakes can be added for a touch of heat.