With both a mix of native Samoan and outside ingredients , this Chinese import has become a Samoan staple. There are a number of variations of this nationwide famous recipe, which changes from village to village depending on what’s available. The dish usually consists of either pork or chicken, with island greens, Talo leaves, cabbage, carrot and served with a vermicelli noodle base. Served with rice or Talo on the side.
With many variations of this dish throughout the Pacific islands, Samoa has a twist on their own. Each Oka is made to personal taste, so flavours may vary again through villages and restaurants. Oka’ia is white reef fish, cube diced pieces and soaked in lime or lemon juice. This naturally cooks the fish without heat while marinating it. The second element of making Oka is the selection of vegetables. Tomatoes’, Cucumber, onion and anything else fresh. Drain the fish from the citrus juice and add coconut cream. It’s a treat for the taste buds.
Usually served at breakfast, this dish is the Samoan version of porridge or oats with a distinctly island kick. Made to a thick soup consistency, this dish is sweet from the added coconut cream instead of milk or water more commonly used in western dishes. Pawpaw and coconut flakes are added and it’s served with banana. Simple and delicious!
This dish is made from Talo leaves marinated and cooked in coconut cream served with Talo (Root vegetable with a starchy potato texture). This is my ABSOLUTE favourite. Traditionally slow cooked in an ‘Umu’ the Samoan earth oven. To bake food, the fire is built, then allowed to burn down to just the embers. The food is then wrapped in palm leaves and placed in the oven and covered. Serve Palusami with Talo pieces that take on that Smokey earthy taste. Watching the preparation for this doubles as an insight to the Samoan Culture.
With so much local delicacies and dishes on offer, whether in a restaurant or by the side of the road, Samoa has something for everyone. Le vasa’s restaurant ‘Cocolini’s’ offers all of the above teamed with an open air setting with the sound of the waves as your dining backdrop.
For more information or bookings, email sales@levasaresort.com