Lu'au

About This Recipe

Lu'au (also written luau) is a Samoan dish of taro leaves slow-cooked in coconut cream until silky and tender. It can be a simple vegetarian side or enriched with pieces of lamb, pork, or corned beef. The long cooking removes all traces of the leaves' natural bitterness, leaving a rich green stew.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 500 gtaro leaves (luau), ribs removed and roughly chopped
• 400 mlcoconut cream
• 200 gcorned beef or lamb, cut into chunks (optional)
• 1 mediumonion, sliced
• 1 tspsalt

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine

   Place taro leaves, onion, meat (if using), salt, and coconut cream in a heavy pot.

2. 2

   Simmer

   Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

3. 3

   Cook low and slow

   Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 50–60 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until leaves are very tender and sauce is thick.

4. 4

   Adjust seasoning

   Taste and add more salt if needed.

5. 5

   Serve

   Serve over steamed rice or with taro.

Variations

• •

  Make fully vegan by omitting the meat.

• •

  Add a pinch of chilli flakes for warmth.

Storage

Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or coconut cream.

Frequently Asked Questions