Entree: Cook Islands – Taro Leaf Stew (Creamy coconut stew of tender taro leaves simmered with onion and fish or pork)
Serving Size: 4
Approximate Time
Prep
20 min
Cook
25 min
Additional
10 min
Total
55 min
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh taro leaves, stems removed and coarsely chopped (or 1 lb / 450 g frozen taro leaves, thawed)
- 2 white fish fillets, approx. 1 lb (450 g) total, cut into 1–2 inch (2–5 cm) chunks (use firm fish such as snapper or mahi-mahi)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large (about 200 g) onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves (9 g) garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 g) fresh ginger, minced
- 1–2 small (10–20 g) green chilies, sliced (optional)
- 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika or 1/2 tsp (1 g) chili flakes (optional)
- 2 cups (480 ml) coconut cream (or 1 1/2 cups coconut cream + 1/2 cup / 120 ml water for a lighter stew)
- 1 cup (240 ml) fish stock or water
- Salt to taste (about 1 tsp / 6 g)
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime (about 1 tbsp / 15 ml)
- Fresh chopped cilantro or shredded cabbage for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. If using fresh taro leaves, blanch them in a large pot of boiling water 2–3 minutes to remove any itchiness, then drain and roughly chop. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze excess water.
2. Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, ginger, and sliced chilies and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped taro leaves to the pan and toss to coat with aromatics. Cook 3–4 minutes until they begin to wilt.
4. Pour in the coconut cream and fish stock, stir in smoked paprika or chili flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the fish chunks, submerge them gently in the liquid, cover, and simmer on low 10–12 minutes until the fish is cooked through and taro leaves are tender.
6. Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve hot over steamed cassava, taro, or rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro or shredded cabbage if desired.
