The following highlights some of the popular Traditional Samoan Foods. If you manage to be in an Samoan restaurant or you are visiting Samoa, I recommend the following:
1. Sapasui
Sapasui is one of Samoans’ favourite dishes, made with noodles, vegetables, meat and soy sauce. Any spices and condiments can be added as desired. This preparation is quite similar to classic Chop Suey from other countries and food cultures. On the other hand, it can also be served with rice and other foods.
2. Panipopo
This bread is extremely light and has a subtle and delicious coconut flavour that makes it one of the most popular and tasted breads in Samoan cuisine. The secret to its texture and flavour is that it is baked in a coconut milk sauce. This dish can be eaten after or during meals as a side dish. Moreover, thanks to its large size, it is the ideal dish for a large number of people at parties or celebrations with family or friends.
3. Panikeke
These fritters can be purchased in commercial establishments or prepared in the comfort of your own home without any inconvenience. They are made with sweet plantain. Usually, this dish is served as a snack. On the other hand, these fritters are usually served hot in order to enjoy their flavour and texture more. It is also important to note that they are very easy to prepare and only take a few minutes.
4. Oka I'a
Oka i’a is a traditional dish composed of raw fish, typically fresh tuna, marinated in lime juice and coconut cream, then roughly diced with onion. The mixture of these ingredients makes the fish salad very healthy, tasty and unique. There are many variations on this dish, so some people like to add chopped pepper, coriander, parsley and even lemon slices to the salad.
5. Masi Samoa
These are one of the most delicious biscuits that can be found among Samoan dishes. They are made with a variety of ingredients, including coconut milk and vanilla extract. Depending on individual taste, it is possible to decorate the top of the biscuit with shredded coconut. In addition, they are usually made in a square shape, which makes them even easier to identify.
6. Palusami
It is one of the typical Samoan dishes, which is also known as baked coconut milk. The dish in question consists of baked solidified coconut milk wrapped in taro leaves and banana leaves. If you try it at a restaurant or other establishment, it may be served on a plate ready for tasting, while if you buy it to take away, it is commonly sold in its wrapper.
7. Samoan Poi
This Samoan poi is made from ripe bananas that are simply mashed and mixed with coconut cream or milk. Then add a little sugar and a dash of vanilla and you have a refreshing dessert to enjoy on a hot day. The Samoan poi recipe is popular in many South Pacific islands. After all, bananas and coconuts are staple ingredients on all these islands. A charming and traditional dessert.
8. Pisua
Pisua is a delicious Samoan dessert made with tapioca pearls dipped in a creamy sauce made with coconut milk and caramel. This dish is always served cold and can be served as a dessert or dessert. It is traditionally served in small, clear bowls.
9. Kale Moa
This is a Samoan dish that is characterised by a balance of spicy, salty and sweet. This easy chicken curry is made with chicken pieces, coconut milk, flour, water, oil, curry powder, spices such as ginger, garlic and onion, and vegetables such as potato, carrot and celery. When the curry has reached the desired consistency, it is recommended to serve it with aerated white rice.
If you found this list useful, here are some more Traditional Oceanian Foods to try out on my Pinterest channel.