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Ane Fotu | Shepparton Culture Kitchen

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MAV (Multicultural Arts Victoria)
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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Traditional Tongan Umu

Cultural Context

The umu is a traditional Tongan cooking method, where food is cooked in an underground oven using hot stones and banana leaves. This communal cooking style is often used for feasts and special occasions, reflecting Tongan hospitality and cultural heritage. The umu not only provides a unique flavor but also brings people together, as families and friends gather to prepare and enjoy the meal. Today, variations of the umu can be found in other Pacific Island cultures, showcasing its influence and adaptability.

TonganTOmain
240 min
hard
6 servings
Servings4
10 large banana leaves
20 hot stones
2 lbs pork
2 lbs chicken
2 lbs fish
1 lb taro
2 lbs sweet potatoes
1 cup coconut milk
1 large onion
4 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons herbs
2 cups vegetables

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

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: tofu

Chicken is leaner and tofu is a plant-based option.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Almond milk is lower in calories while evaporated milk is more affordable.

1

Prepare the umu pit by digging a shallow hole in the ground.

2

Gather hot stones and place them in the pit to heat up.

3

Layer banana leaves over the hot stones to create a base.

4

Season the pork, chicken, or fish with salt, pepper, and herbs.

5

Place the seasoned meat on top of the banana leaves.

6

Add taro, sweet potatoes, and other vegetables around the meat.

7

Pour coconut milk over the meat and vegetables for flavor.

8

Cover the food with more banana leaves to trap the steam.

9

Add more hot stones on top to maintain heat.

10

Cover the pit with soil to create an oven effect.

11

Cook for several hours until the meat is tender and fully cooked.

12

Uncover the umu and carefully remove the hot stones.

13

Serve the food directly from the umu, enjoying the smoky flavor.

Cooking Techniques

digginglayeringsteaming

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Also Known As

UmuTongan underground oven

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