Vanuatuan Cassava Cake (lap Lap)
Vanuatuan Cassava Cake, also known as Lap Lap, is a traditional dish from the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. This hearty and flavorful cake is made with grated cassava, coconut milk, and a variety of seasonings, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked until tender.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cassava, grated
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups grated cheese
- Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions
- Preheat the stovetop to medium heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated cassava, coconut milk, onion, tomatoes, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Place a layer of banana leaves on a flat surface. Spread half of the cassava mixture on the leaves, then sprinkle half of the grated cheese on top.
- Cover the cheese with the remaining cassava mixture, then sprinkle the rest of the grated cheese on top.
- Wrap the banana leaves around the cassava mixture to form a tight package.
- Place the wrapped lap lap in a large pot and add enough water to cover the package.
- Cover the pot and cook the lap lap over medium heat for 1 hour, or until the cassava is tender.
- Remove the lap lap from the pot and carefully unwrap the banana leaves.
- Slice the lap lap into portions and serve hot.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 30 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 1 hour
- Total time:
- 1 hour
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 300 per serving
- Protein
- 5g
- Carbohydrates
- 40g
- Fat
- 15g
Supplies
Large pot Banana leaves
Tools
Grater Knife Bowl
Serving suggestions
Serving suggestions: Lap lap is traditionally served with a side of fresh salad or grilled fish.
Tips & tricks
Tips: Make sure to wrap the lap lap tightly in banana leaves to keep the moisture and flavors locked in during cooking.
Cost
$10