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SUNDAY COOKING IN SAMOA 🇼🇸 | EPISODE 28 | SAMOAN FOOD |

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Recipe Information

Recipe Available
Video-Specific Recipe

To'onai

Cultural Context

To'onai is a traditional Tongan dish that highlights the island's abundant seafood and coconut resources. Often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations, this dish embodies the communal spirit of Tongan culture, where meals are shared and enjoyed together. In modern times, To'onai has found its way into various Pacific Islander communities, adapting to local tastes while preserving its essence.

TonganWSmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
1.5 lbs fish
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 medium onions
3 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon ginger
2 medium tomatoes
1 medium bell peppers
1/4 cup lime juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup green onions
2 chili peppers
2 medium carrots
2 bay leaves
4 cups water

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk + coconut extract

Light coconut milk reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

fish

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Tofu is a plant-based alternative, while canned tuna is a budget-friendly protein.

1

Clean and prepare the fish, removing any scales and guts.

2

Cut the fish into large chunks.

3

Heat a pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil.

4

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

5

Add chopped tomatoes and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

6

Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.

7

Add fish chunks, lime juice, and season with salt and black pepper.

8

Add water to cover the fish and bring to a simmer.

9

Add carrots, chili peppers, and bay leaves to the pot.

10

Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

11

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

12

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Cooking Techniques

sautéingstewing

Equipment Needed

potknifecutting boardspoon

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Dietary

pescatarian

Allergens

fishcoconut

Also Known As

Tongan Coconut FishTongan Fish Stew

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