What foods do people eat in Tonga?

Tongan cuisine is a delicious blend of Polynesian and Western influences, with a heavy emphasis on fresh seafood, root vegetables, and fruits.

Here's a glimpse of what you might find on a typical Tongan table:

Main Dishes:

* Lūpulu: A traditional dish of taro root, often boiled or baked and served with coconut milk and sometimes meat.

* Otai: A hearty stew made with pork, chicken, or fish, simmered with vegetables like taro, yams, sweet potato, and green bananas.

* Keke: A type of savory cake made from coconut milk, tapioca flour, and sometimes cheese or fish.

* Puka: Baked or steamed root vegetables, often served with fish or meat.

* Umu: A traditional earth oven where food is cooked with hot stones, often including whole pigs, fish, and vegetables.

* Fish: Tonga is surrounded by the ocean, and fish is a major part of the diet. Tuna, mahi-mahi, and other reef fish are grilled, baked, or cooked in coconut milk.

Sides and Accompaniments:

* Fale: A type of Tongan breadfruit salad, made with grated breadfruit, coconut milk, and often fish or meat.

* Otai: A sweet, refreshing drink made with fruits, water, and often coconut milk.

* Kava: A traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant, known for its relaxing and mildly sedative effects.

Other Notable Dishes:

* Pulu: A fermented breadfruit dish that is often eaten with fish or meat.

* Lolo: A fermented fish dish that is considered a delicacy.

* Taro: Taro is a staple food in Tonga and is used in many different dishes.

Modern Influences:

While traditional Tongan cuisine is still widely enjoyed, Western influences have introduced dishes like pizza, hamburgers, and pasta into the local food scene.

Tips for Trying Tongan Cuisine:

* Don't be afraid to try new things! Tongan cuisine is full of unique flavors and textures.

* Be prepared to eat with your hands. This is a common practice in Tonga.

* Enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of Tongan hospitality.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a taste of the Pacific Islands, Tongan cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds!