Delight in the flavors of Kiribati with Te Taki, a traditional dish featuring breadfruit simmered to perfection in rich coconut cream. This cherished recipe reflects the island nation's love for simple yet exquisite dishes that celebrate the bounty of the Pacific. Tender breadfruit, with its mild, potato-like taste, is transformed into a creamy delicacy when cooked slowly in coconut cream. The result is a dish that captures the essence of Kiribati's tropical paradise, offering a taste of warmth and tradition in every velvety bite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting side or a satisfying main, Kiribati Te Taki invites you to savor a piece of island life, one delicious spoonful at a time.

Here's a recipe for Kiribati Te Taki - Breadfruit Cooked in Coconut Cream:

Ingredients:

 - 1 large breadfruit

 - 2 cups coconut cream

 - Salt, to taste

 - Water

 - Optional: chopped onions, garlic, or chili for added flavor

Instructions:

Prepare the Breadfruit:

1- Peel the breadfruit and cut it into medium-sized chunks. Remove the core if desired, as it can be quite fibrous.

2- Place the breadfruit pieces in a bowl of water to prevent browning while you prepare the coconut cream.

Prepare the Coconut Cream:

1- If using fresh coconut, grate the flesh and extract the coconut milk. You can also use canned coconut cream for convenience.

2- Strain the grated coconut through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, squeezing to extract as much liquid as possible. This is your coconut cream.

Cook the Breadfruit:

1- In a large pot, add the coconut cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

2- Drain the breadfruit pieces from the water and add them to the pot with the coconut cream.

3- If desired, add salt to taste. You can also add chopped onions, garlic, or chili for extra flavor.

4- Stir gently to coat the breadfruit pieces with the coconut cream.

Simmer:

1- Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the breadfruit simmer gently in the coconut cream for about 30-40 minutes, or until the breadfruit is tender.

2- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more coconut cream or water if needed to maintain a creamy consistency. The breadfruit should absorb some of the coconut cream and become soft and creamy.

Serve:

1- Once the breadfruit is cooked and tender, remove the pot from the heat.

2- Give it a final gentle stir and taste for seasoning, adding more salt if needed.

3- Transfer the Kiribati Te Taki to a serving dish.

4- This dish is often enjoyed as a side dish with fish, seafood, or other main dishes in Kiribati. It can also be a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Enjoy!

1- Serve the Kiribati Te Taki warm and enjoy the creamy, tender breadfruit infused with the rich coconut flavor.

2- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and savor the taste of this traditional Kiribati dish that celebrates the flavors of the Pacific.

This recipe offers a delicious way to experience the flavors of Kiribati with its simple yet satisfying combination of breadfruit and coconut cream.

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in Kiribati Te Taki:

1 Large Breadfruit:

- Calories: 200 kcal (per medium-sized breadfruit; larger ones may have more)

- Fat: 0.5 g

- Carbohydrates: 52 g

- Protein: 2 g

Benefits:

 - Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals like potassium and magnesium.

 - Supports digestive health, boosts immunity, and provides energy.

2 Cups Coconut Cream:

- Calories: 900 kcal

- Fat: 96 g

- Carbohydrates: 12 g

- Protein: 6 g

Benefits:

 - Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which support energy levels and metabolism.

 - Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor to dishes, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Salt, to Taste:

- Calories: Negligible

- Fat: 0 g

- Carbohydrates: 0 g

- Protein: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor and seasoning.

 - Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Water:

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Fat: 0 g

- Carbohydrates: 0 g

- Protein: 0 g

Benefits:Essential for hydration, aids in digestion, regulates body temperature, and supports overall bodily functions.

Optional: Chopped Onions, Garlic, or Chili for Added Flavor:

Chopped Onions:

 - Calories: 45 kcal (per onion)

 - Fat: 0 g

 - Carbohydrates: 11 g

 - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:Contains antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health, help regulate blood sugar levels, and enhance immune function.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 9 kcal (per 2 cloves)

 - Fat: 0 g

 - Carbohydrates: 2 g

 - Protein: 0.4 g

Benefits:Known for its potential to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.

Chili:

 - Calories: 18 kcal (per chili)

 - Fat: 0.2 g

 - Carbohydrates: 4 g

 - Protein: 0.6 g

Benefits:Contains capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and add flavor without many calories.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brand and type of ingredients used. The values provided are for general informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice.