Fijian cuisine

ETH-BIB-Friedlaender-Fiji, Preparing for feast, Fiji-Hs 0625a-0003-005.

Local Market with taro and coconuts (14050766628)

Lovo

Fijian cuisine is the traditional food of Fiji, an island country located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is a diverse mix of the culinary traditions of the indigenous Fijian people, along with influences from Indian, Chinese, and European cuisine, reflecting the multicultural makeup of its population. Fijian cuisine is known for its use of fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, and seafood, seasoned with coconut milk and an array of local spices.

Ingredients

The staple ingredients in Fijian cuisine include taro, cassava (also known as tapioca or manioc), sweet potatoes, and coconut. Seafood is also a significant part of the diet, with fish, prawns, and shellfish being widely consumed. Fruits such as papaya, pineapple, banana, and mango are commonly used in dishes or eaten as snacks. The use of spices and herbs, like coriander, lemongrass, and ginger, adds distinctive flavors to Fijian dishes.

Traditional Dishes

One of the most traditional Fijian dishes is Lovo, which is a method of cooking similar to the Hawaiian luau or the New Zealand Māori hangi. In this cooking process, food is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in a pit oven underground, giving it a unique smoky flavor. Common lovo dishes include pork, lamb, fish, and vegetables.

Kokoda is another popular Fijian dish, consisting of raw fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and mixed with coconut milk, onions, tomatoes, and chillies. This dish is similar to the South American ceviche.

Curry dishes reflect the Indian influence on Fijian cuisine. Indian settlers brought with them their culinary traditions, and as a result, curries made with chicken, goat, and vegetables, served with rice or roti, are common.

Eating Habits

Fijian meals are typically communal, with families and friends gathering to share food. The concept of sharing and community is deeply ingrained in Fijian culture, and this extends to their eating habits. Traditional meals are often eaten with hands, and it is common practice to wash hands before and after eating.

Festivals and Food

Food plays a central role in Fijian festivals and celebrations. During the Diwali festival, which is widely celebrated by the Indo-Fijian community, a variety of sweet and savory dishes are prepared. Similarly, during the Christian festival of Christmas, special meals are prepared, often including a lovo feast.

Modern Fijian Cuisine

Today, Fijian cuisine continues to evolve, incorporating elements from various cuisines around the world while still maintaining its traditional roots. Restaurants and chefs are experimenting with local ingredients to create innovative dishes that reflect the multicultural heritage of Fiji.

Conclusion

Fijian cuisine offers a unique and flavorful dining experience, characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients and the blending of various culinary traditions. It is a reflection of Fiji's rich cultural diversity and its people's connection to the land and sea.