Fresh ingredients, some vegetables and the cooks dedication make the Fijian food not only a mix of colours and flavours, but a healthy and tasty meal.
The cuisine of Fiji is a wonderful treat for travellers, one that perfectly captures the essence of the nation's colourful culture and traditions.
Traditional Ingredients
Fijians use many fresh ingredients to cook their meals. Common ingredients include vegetables such as sweet potatoes, cassava and eggplant. Many dishes also feature fruits like bananas and oranges. Fiji, like many other Pacific island nations, is also famous for its coconut consumption. Certain tribes partake in spear fishing to use in their meals. Wild boar is used to make many of the pork dishes.
Curries
Influences from Indian cuisine have been used in Fiji food in recent years. One of the most common examples is the use of spicy curry recipes to supplement meals. Fijian raita, which consists of chili peppers and yogurt, is a popular condiment used with curries. Coconut chutney is also used to accompany curry dishes. The spicy influences of curry are even used to create spicier versions of fish and meat dishes.
Popular Meals
Many of the popular meals in Fiji share ties with Asian countries and other island nations. Palusami, a common dish used in many Polynesian cuisines, consists of corned beef, onions and an assortment of other vegetables wrapped in taro leaves. Kokoda, a chilled fish salad, is another one of Fiji's specialties. A favourite delicacy served during many traditional ceremonies is a coconut, banana and tapioca mixture known as kassaua.
Lovo
This traditional Fijian food preparation method is often used during special ceremonies. A fire pit is made in the ground using stones. Leaves and wood are used for kindling. Pork, chicken, seafood or other foods are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over the fire.
Additional Fiji Tips
Travelers visiting Fiji can find holiday package deals on Fiji flights and hotels. For more adventurous travellers, another Fiji accommodation option is to stay in a local village in order to achieve a better understanding of the culture. It is important to always be respectful of Fijian traditions and ceremonies. Dressing modestly around villagers is also appreciated.
Fiji's exquisite cuisine is likely to be a favourite for many travellers. The fresh ingredients and attention to detail used in the creation of these meals enhance the overall quality of the food selections. Fijian cuisine is definitely worth discovering.