Luau Pisupo
Luau Pisupo Recipe from Samoa with Corned Beef and Taro Leaves
Introduction
Luau Pisupo is a traditional Samoan dish that combines canned corned beef with taro leaves for a flavorful and hearty meal. This dish is a staple in Samoan cuisine and is often served at special occasions and gatherings.
History
Luau Pisupo has its roots in traditional Samoan cooking, where canned corned beef was introduced by European settlers and incorporated into local dishes. The combination of corned beef and taro leaves creates a unique and delicious flavor that has become a favorite among Samoans.
Ingredients
- 1 can of 3 pisupo (corned beef)
- 10 young taro leaves, foil or breadfruit leaves
- 1 cup of chopped onions
- black pepper to taste
How to prepare
- Scoop 3 tbsp of pisupo onto young taro leaves.
- Wrap it as you would a palusami.
- Bake it in a 350°F (177°C) oven or in an umu for an hour.
Variations
- Substitute the canned corned beef with fresh beef or pork for a different flavor.
- Add coconut milk to the dish for a creamier texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to wrap the pisupo tightly in the taro leaves to ensure that the flavors meld together during cooking.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- For a smokier flavor, consider cooking the dish in an umu (traditional Samoan earth oven).
Serving Suggestions
Luau Pisupo is traditionally served with coconut cream and steamed rice.
Cooking Techniques
Bake the wrapped pisupo in the oven or cook it in an umu for an authentic Samoan flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If taro leaves are not available, you can use spinach or banana leaves as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
Luau Pisupo can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Luau Pisupo on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Luau Pisupo pairs well with a side of fresh tropical fruit or a green salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 300 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 10g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 15g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 20g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Luau Pisupo is rich in iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Alergens
Luau Pisupo contains gluten from the canned corned beef.
Summary
Luau Pisupo is a high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Summary
Luau Pisupo is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of canned corned beef and taro leaves for a unique Samoan culinary experience. Enjoy this traditional dish with family and friends for a taste of the Pacific Islands.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Luau Pisupo. It was a warm summer day in Hawaii, and I was visiting a local market in search of ingredients for a traditional Hawaiian feast. As I wandered through the bustling stalls, my eyes were drawn to a small, elderly woman selling fresh produce and homemade goods.
I struck up a conversation with her, and she eagerly shared stories of her family and their love for cooking. She told me about Luau Pisupo, a dish that had been passed down through generations in her family. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me.
With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed and began to recount the ingredients and steps needed to make this beloved dish. Luau Pisupo, she explained, was a simple yet flavorful stew made with canned corned beef, coconut milk, onions, and taro leaves. The combination of savory meat and creamy coconut was a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, she said, and was often served at family gatherings and celebrations.
As she spoke, I could sense the passion and pride she had for her family's recipe. She spoke of the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to slowly simmer the stew to allow the flavors to meld together. I listened intently, eager to learn more about this traditional Hawaiian dish.
After she had finished sharing the recipe with me, I thanked her profusely and promised to give it a try. As I left the market that day, I couldn't wait to get back to my kitchen and start cooking. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the steps she had outlined for me.
The aroma of coconut and corned beef filled my kitchen as the stew bubbled away on the stove. I could hardly contain my excitement as I ladled the rich, creamy broth into a bowl and took my first taste. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect harmony of savory and sweet, meaty and earthy.
I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special with this recipe for Luau Pisupo. It was a dish that spoke to the heart of Hawaiian culture, a simple yet delicious meal that brought people together and celebrated the bounty of the land and sea.
Over the years, I have continued to make Luau Pisupo for family and friends, each time remembering that chance encounter with the elderly woman at the market. Her recipe has become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our roots and to each other.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Hawaii, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from someone who held such deep knowledge and passion for her craft. The recipe for Luau Pisupo may have come from a chance encounter, but its impact on me has been immeasurable. And for that, I am truly thankful.