Discover the authentic taste of Palusami, a savory dish made from taro leaves simmered in rich coconut milk. This traditional recipe can be customized with meat or fish for added flavor and protein. Perfect for a hearty meal, Palusami offers a unique blend of tropical ingredients and is a staple in Pacific cuisine. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create this delectable dish at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 bunch of taro leaves (washed and stems removed)

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1 onion (chopped)

- 2 cloves garlic (minced)

- 1-2 green chilies (chopped, optional)

- 200g meat (beef or chicken, cut into small pieces) or 200g fish (cubed, optional)

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)

- 1/2 cup water (as needed)

Instructions:

Prepare the Taro Leaves:

  - Remove the stems from the taro leaves and discard any tough parts.

  - Rinse the leaves thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Cook the Meat or Fish (if using):

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.

  - Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they become soft and translucent.

  - Add the meat or fish and cook until browned and cooked through. Set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

  - In the same pan, add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.

  - Season with salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and fish sauce if using. Stir well.

Assemble the Dish:

  - Place a layer of taro leaves at the bottom of the pan. Spread them out evenly.

  - If using meat or fish, place it on top of the taro leaves.

  - Cover with another layer of taro leaves.

Simmer:

  - Add enough water to the pan to cover the ingredients. Bring to a simmer.

  - Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the taro leaves are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Serve:

  - Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

  - Serve hot as a main dish or alongside rice.

Enjoy your homemade Palusami, a flavorful and comforting dish that brings a taste of the Pacific to your table!

Nutritional Values

1 bunch of taro leaves (washed and stems removed)

  - Calories: 50 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 12g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron. Supports digestion and bone health.

1 cup coconut milk

  - Calories: 445 kcal

  - Fat: 48g

  - Protein: 4g

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats and some vitamins and minerals. Adds a rich flavor and creamy texture to dishes.

1 onion (chopped)

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins C and B6. Supports immune health and digestion.

2 cloves garlic (minced)

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Protein: 0.4g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Boosts immune function.

1-2 green chilies (chopped, optional)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Adds a spicy kick and contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce pain.

200g meat (beef or chicken, cut into small pieces) or fish (cubed, optional)

Beef: 

   - Calories: 400 kcal 

   - Protein: 45g 

   - Fat: 25g

Chicken: 

   - Calories: 220 kcal 

   - Protein: 50g 

   - Fat: 6g

Fish (varies by type, e.g., cod): 

   - Calories: 90 kcal 

   - Protein: 20g 

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits: High in protein for muscle repair and growth. Beef provides iron and zinc, chicken is lower in fat and offers B vitamins, and fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  - Calories: 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats and helps with cooking.

1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Excessive salt can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in large amounts.

1 teaspoon black pepper

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits: Contains piperine, which can aid digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

  - Calories: 10 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor with minimal calories. Contains some protein and is low in fat.

1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds umami flavor with minimal calories.

1/2 cup water (as needed)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Hydrates and adjusts consistency of the dish.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient types and preparation methods.