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Whole Chicken on The Umu🐔🔥, Fai'ai Elegi, Oka and Umu | Sunday Cooking in Samoa | Ep.66

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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Whole Chicken on the Umu

Cultural Context

Originating from Samoa, the Umu is a traditional earth oven that has been used for centuries to cook various foods, including whole chickens. This method not only infuses the meat with a unique smoky flavor but also embodies the communal spirit of Samoan culture, where cooking and sharing meals is a cherished tradition. Today, the Umu is celebrated not just in Samoa but also in various Pacific Islander communities around the world, often featured at gatherings and special occasions.

SamoanWSmain
120 min
medium
6 servings
Servings4
1 whole chicken
2 teaspoons sea salt
1 cup coconut cream
4 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon ginger
1 medium onion
1/2 cup fresh herbs
5 banana leaves
5 taro leaves
1 lime
1 teaspoon pepper
1 chili
2 tablespoons cooking oil
2 cups vegetables
1 cup water

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

whole chicken

🥗Healthier: cornish hen

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Cornish hen offers a leaner option, while thighs are more economical.

coconut cream

🥗Healthier: coconut milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Coconut milk reduces calories, and evaporated milk is cost-effective.

fresh herbs

🥗Healthier: dried herbs

💰Cheaper: mixed Italian herbs

Dried herbs are more accessible and last longer.

banana leaves

💰Cheaper: aluminum foil

Aluminum foil is a practical substitute for wrapping.

1

Prepare the umu by heating stones in a pit until they are red hot.

2

Clean the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.

3

Rub the chicken inside and out with sea salt and pepper.

4

Mix coconut cream with minced garlic, ginger, and chopped onion.

5

Coat the chicken with the coconut mixture, ensuring it is well covered.

6

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with fresh herbs and lime slices.

7

Wrap the chicken in banana leaves or aluminum foil tightly.

8

Place the wrapped chicken on the heated stones in the umu.

9

Cover the chicken with more banana leaves or taro leaves for insulation.

10

Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure it is cooking evenly.

11

Remove the chicken from the umu and let it rest for 10 minutes before unwrapping.

12

Carve the chicken and serve with steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

roastingwrappingseasoning

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

coconut

Also Known As

Umu ChickenSamoan Umu Chicken

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