Indulge in the delightful culinary journey of Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) bread, a cherished staple deeply rooted in the region's rich cultural heritage. Made with locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques, FSM bread offers a symphony of flavors that reflect the diverse landscapes and vibrant traditions of this Pacific archipelago.

Savor the aroma of freshly baked taro, sweet potato, or coconut bread, each infused with the essence of the islands. From dense and hearty loaves to light and fluffy rolls, FSM bread caters to every palate, promising a taste sensation unlike any other.

Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with local delicacies such as freshly caught seafood or tropical fruits, FSM bread embodies the spirit of community and sustenance in the Federated States of Micronesia. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Micronesian culture with every delicious bite of this beloved culinary treasure.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated taro
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Banana leaves or parchment paper (for lining the baking dish)

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking dish with banana leaves or parchment paper.

2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated taro, all-purpose flour, grated coconut, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3- In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, water, and vanilla extract.

4- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Mix until a thick, sticky batter forms.

5- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

6- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the baking dish.

8- Once cooled, carefully remove the bread from the baking dish and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9- Slice the taro bread into desired portions and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the unique flavors of Federated States of Micronesia with this delicious taro bread!

Note: You can also add variations to this recipe by substituting taro with sweet potato or using a combination of both. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sugar according to your preference for sweetness.

Nutritional Values:

Taro:

2 cups grated taro (about 320g):

• Calories: 224 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Fiber: 7g

benefits: Taro is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It provides energy, aids digestion, and supports heart health.

All-purpose flour:

1 cup (about 125g):Calories:

• 455 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 95g
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 3g

benefits: All-purpose flour is a versatile ingredient that provides carbohydrates for energy. It also contains small amounts of protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

Grated coconut:

1 cup (about 80g):

• Calories: 466 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 45g
• Fiber: 10g

benefits: Grated coconut is rich in healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like manganese and copper. It provides energy, supports digestion, and may have antioxidant properties.

Granulated sugar:

1/2 cup (about 100g):

• Calories: 387 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 100g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Granulated sugar provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation. It adds sweetness to the bread but offers no significant nutritional benefits.

Coconut milk:

1/4 cup (about 60ml):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Coconut milk is a source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide energy and support brain health. It also adds creaminess and flavor to the bread.

Water:

1/4 cup (about 60ml):

• No significant nutritional value

benefits: Water is essential for hydration and helps dissolve other ingredients to form the bread batter. It has no calories but is vital for overall health and proper bodily functions.

Baking powder:

1 teaspoon:

• Calories: 2 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy. It contains sodium bicarbonate, which reacts with acidic ingredients to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing the bread to expand.

Salt:

1/2 teaspoon:

• No significant nutritional value

benefits: Salt enhances the flavor of the bread and helps regulate the fermentation process. It also plays a role in preserving the freshness of baked goods.

Vanilla extract:

1/4 teaspoon:

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.2g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Vanilla extract adds flavor and aroma to the bread. While it provides minimal nutritional value, it enhances the overall taste experience.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as brand, variety, and preparation methods.