Whether you've recently returned from your luxury family holiday in Fiji or you're getting ready to fly to the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, there's something about the tropical cuisine of the islands that gets tummies rumbling no matter where you are! 

For a true taste of Fiji, why not try your hand at creating some of the most popular dishes eaten across the islands? 

Glean a little inspiration by checking out some of the Jean-Micheal Cousteau Resort's favourites below. 

Kokoda

Kokoda is a traditional Fijian raw fish salad that is extremely delicious and extremely easy to replicate in your own home. This recipe will serve around five people as a starter or side. 

Ingredients include:

• 100 ml coconut cream
• 500g fresh white fish, thinly sliced
• 2 spring onions, finely sliced
• 1 chilli, minced
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes

Method:

Allow the fish to marinate in lime juice for two to three hours before draining. Next, mix the chopped vegetables and coconut cream together, and add the marinated fish. Chill well and garnish with lime wedges and coriander before serving.

At our five star Fiji resort, we're passionate about serving these traditional meals alongside other delicious dishes, such as the magical Lovo feast!

Palusami

Palusami is a popular Fijian dish of meat, coconut cream and various vegetables, wrapped in taro leaves, then baked. This recipe is a great appetiser for a party and will serve around eight people.

Ingredients include:

• 2 dozen young taro leaves (washed and softened in hot water)
• 400ml coconut cream
• 1 brown onion, chopped
• 250g cooked corned or minced beef
• 2 tomatoes, sliced

Method:

Hold the pliable taro leaf in your hand to form a cup shape. Spoon in a small amount of coconut cream, cooked beef, and layer the onion and tomato on top. Fold over the leaves to make a parcel and secure in place with toothpicks. Wrap in tinfoil and bake in the oven for around 30-40 minutes.

Fijian banana cake

Who could forget about dessert? This moist and fluffy banana cake is served at Fijian celebrations and is a tasty treat for after dinner. 

Ingredients include:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed 
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 cup self raising flour

Method:

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, eggs, sugar, vanilla and melted butter together until fluffy. In a separate bowl, combine baking soda and self-raising flour. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a smooth batter is formed. Pour into a greased and lined cake tin, and bake for around 30 minutes at 170 degrees Celsius (or until a toothpick comes out clear). 

We don't know about you, but all of this talk of Fijian food is making us hungry. Come and experience the deliciousness for yourself while staying at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort!