Kava Curry ('otai 'ava)
Kava Curry, also known as 'Otai 'ava, is a traditional Tongan dish that features a rich and flavorful coconut milk-based curry with tender pieces of meat or seafood. This dish is a staple in Tongan cuisine and is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, beef, or seafood, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pumpkin, diced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions
- Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the meat or seafood to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, coating the meat or seafood evenly.
- Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the sliced red bell pepper and diced pumpkin to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and let the curry simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve the kava curry hot with steamed rice or root vegetables.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 350 per serving
- Protein
- 25g
- Carbohydrates
- 15g
- Fat
- 20g
Supplies
Large pot Cooking spoon Cutting board Knife
Tools
Stovetop
Serving suggestions
Serving Suggestions: Serve the kava curry with a side of steamed taro, yams, or cassava for an authentic Tongan meal.
Tips & tricks
Tips: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less curry powder, and feel free to customize the vegetables and protein to your preference.
Cost
$15