Discover the Flavors of Samoa: 20 Authentic Recipes to Try at Home
Samoan cuisine is a fusion of traditional and modern flavors, with a focus on coconut, taro, and fish. With its rich cultural heritage, Samoa has a unique culinary identity that is both delicious and exotic. From savory dishes like Palusami (coconut cream baked taro leaves) to sweet treats like Fa’alifu Talo (coconut cream taro), we’re excited to share 20 authentic Samoan recipes with you.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Samoa, exploring the country’s most beloved dishes and desserts. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or simply interested in learning about Samoan culture, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Palusami (Coconut Cream Baked Taro Leaves)
Palusami (Coconut Cream Baked Taro Leaves) Recipe
Palusami is a traditional Fijian dish that combines the natural sweetness of taro leaves with the rich flavor of coconut cream. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare this popular side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 large taro leaves
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh chives or scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the stems from the taro leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the coconut cream and stir until smooth.
4. Arrange the taro leaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Pour the coconut cream mixture evenly over the taro leaves.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the taro leaves are tender and the coconut cream is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh chives or scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oka I’a (Samoan Raw Fish Salad)
Experience the freshness of Samoa with this traditional raw fish salad, Oka I’a. A staple dish at Samoan gatherings and celebrations, Oka I’a is a flavorful and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh tuna or bonito
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped tomato
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish into small pieces and place in a large bowl.
2. Mix in coconut cream, onion, tomato, lime juice, and salt until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served raw.
Sapasui (Samoan Chop Suey)
A classic Samoan dish that combines the flavors of Asia with a hint of island flair, Sapasui is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, sliced into thin strips
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can (14 oz) bean sprouts
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the Sapasui mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fa’alifu Talo (Coconut Cream Taro)
A traditional Samoan dessert, Fa’alifu Talo is a creamy and sweet taro pudding infused with coconut milk. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 large taro root, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups coconut cream
– 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Boil the taro chunks in enough water until tender, then drain and mash.
2. In a separate pot, combine coconut cream, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Add the mashed taro to the coconut mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the Fa’alifu Talo into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Panipopo (Samoan Coconut Buns)
Warm up with the comforting aroma of these traditional Samoan coconut buns, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into small balls.
6. Roll each ball into a flattened disk, then sprinkle coconut and melted butter on one half. Fold the other half over to form a triangle.
7. Place triangles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lu’au (Samoan Taro Leaf Stew)
A traditional Samoan dish, Lu’au is a hearty and flavorful stew made with taro leaves, meat or fish, and spices. This recipe is a classic variation that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef or pork, cut into small pieces
– 1 bunch of taro leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the meat or fish and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add the taro leaves, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the taro leaves are tender.
8. Serve hot over rice or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Fa’alifu Fa’i (Coconut Cream Bananas)
A classic Samoan dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of coconut cream, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas in half lengthwise and place them on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
3. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and pinch of salt to the whipped cream. Mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the coconut cream mixture over the bananas, dividing it evenly among the four servings.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.
Keke Pua’a (Samoan Pork Buns)
A traditional Samoan dish, Keke Pua’a are sweet and savory pork-filled buns that are perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe yields a dozen delicious buns that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pork filling (see below)
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Pork Filling:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of pork filling in the center of each dough circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a bun shape, and press edges to seal.
8. Brush tops with vegetable oil.
9. Let buns rise for 1 hour before baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pani Popo with Coconut Cream Sauce
Experience the sweet and spicy fusion of India’s street food sensation – Pani Popo! This recipe combines crispy fried doughnuts with a rich coconut cream sauce, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Coconut Cream Sauce (see below)
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Pani Popo:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, oil, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Coconut Cream Sauce:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine 1/2 cup coconut cream, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Serve the Pani Popo warm with Coconut Cream Sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including resting time)
Samoan Coconut Bread
Experience the rich flavors of Samoa with this moist and aromatic coconut bread recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fa’apapa (Samoan Coconut Cake)
A classic Samoan dessert, Fa’apapa is a moist and flavorful coconut cake that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Umu-Style Roasted Pig
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with this classic umu-style roasted pig recipe, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole pig (about 2-3 lbs), cleaned and prepared
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together coconut oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pig, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pig in a large roasting pan or a clay oven (if available) and roast for 2-3 hours, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Baste the pig with its own juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Samoan Poi (Fermented Taro Pudding)
Poi is a traditional Samoan dish made from fermented taro root, and it’s a staple food in many Pacific Island cultures. This recipe shares the simplicity of preparing this unique and nutritious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro root, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup rice flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated taro and water. Let it sit for 24 hours to allow the natural fermentation process.
2. After 24 hours, drain the liquid and rinse the taro with fresh water.
3. Mix in rice flour and salt until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the poi thickens (about 30 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including fermentation time)
Samoan Tuna Pie
Samoan Tuna Pie Recipe
A classic Samoan dish, this tuna pie is a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 cup of cooked rice
– 1/2 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped tomato
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, cooked rice, onion, tomato, soy sauce, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill the pie crust with the tuna mixture and dot the top with melted butter.
5. Roll out the remaining pie crust to cover the filling and crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fa’alifu Moa (Coconut Cream Chicken)
A traditional Samoan dish that combines the richness of coconut cream with the tenderness of chicken, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (2 legs, 2 thighs, 2 wings, 2 breasts)
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together coconut cream, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Samoan Corned Beef and Taro
This classic Samoan dish is a staple in many Pacific Island households, and for good reason – the combination of tender corned beef, creamy taro, and flavorful spices is simply delicious. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large taros, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced corned beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the diced taro, salt, pepper, and water to the pan.
6. Stir well and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the taro is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Samoan Coconut Milk Rice
This creamy and aromatic dish is a staple in Samoan cuisine, often served alongside grilled meats or as a side to savory dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the soaked rice and stir-fry until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Samoan Pineapple Pie
This classic Samoan dessert is a sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of pineapple, coconut, and spices. Perfect for warm weather or any time you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, melted butter, sugar, eggs, coconut, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pineapple mixture.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Allow the pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Samoan Banana Fritters
A sweet and crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These fritters are a popular Samoan dessert made with ripe bananas, flour, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
2. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the banana mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Samoan Coconut Pudding
This creamy pudding is a popular dessert in Samoa, made with coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. It’s a simple yet rich and decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Samoa with these authentic recipes. From coconut cream baked taro leaves (Palusami) to traditional raw fish salad (Oka I’a), this collection of 20 Samoan recipes offers a taste of the islands’ unique flavors and traditions. Other dishes include Samoan chop suey, taro leaf stew, and coconut cream bananas, as well as sweet treats like coconut cake and banana fritters. Whether you’re looking to recreate Samoan favorites or simply explore new flavors, this article is your ticket to a culinary adventure in the Pacific.
Leave a Reply