Po'e

A traditional Polynesian dessert made from bananas and starch

A serving of po'e made with bananas

Po'e is a traditional Polynesian dessert that is popular in the Cook Islands and Tahiti. It is a sweet pudding-like dish made primarily from bananas and starch, often served as a dessert or a sweet treat during special occasions.

Ingredients and Preparation

Po'e is typically made using ripe bananas, which are mashed and mixed with a starch such as arrowroot or tapioca. The mixture is then sweetened with sugar and sometimes flavored with vanilla or coconut milk.

Bananas

Bananas are the primary ingredient in po'e, providing the dish with its characteristic sweetness and flavor. Ripe bananas are preferred for their natural sweetness and soft texture, which helps in creating a smooth pudding-like consistency.

Starch

The starch used in po'e acts as a thickening agent, giving the dessert its firm yet soft texture. Arrowroot and tapioca are commonly used, but other starches like cornstarch can also be used.

Cooking Method

The banana and starch mixture is traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and baked in an umu, which is an earth oven used in Polynesian cooking. Alternatively, it can be baked in a conventional oven. Once cooked, po'e is allowed to cool and is often served with a drizzle of coconut cream.

Cultural Significance

Po'e holds a special place in Polynesian culture, often being prepared for festivals, family gatherings, and other celebrations. It is a dish that reflects the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of the Polynesian people, utilizing locally available ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dessert.

Variations

While banana is the most common fruit used in po'e, other fruits such as papaya, mango, or pumpkin can also be used to create different variations of the dish. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile while maintaining the traditional preparation method.

Related pages

• Polynesian cuisine
• Banana
• Tapioca
• Coconut milk