Fa'asinomaga Enalaga

Background and History

Fa'asinomaga Enalaga is a traditional dish from the lush islands of Samoa, renowned for its vibrant flavors and cultural significance. The name itself reflects the harmonious blend of indigenous cooking traditions and ingredients that have been passed down through generations. Historically, the dish was prepared during communal feasts, particularly for special occasions such as weddings and festivals. Over time, Fa'asinomaga Enalaga has transcended its cultural roots to captivate taste buds across the globe, becoming a symbol of Samoan culinary art.

Ingredients

• Chicken - 1 whole, cut into pieces
• Taro - 2 pounds, peeled and cubed
• Coconut Milk - 2 cups
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, peeled and grated
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Brown Sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh Lemongrass - 1 stalk, crushed
• Chilli Flakes - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Fresh Coriander - for garnish

Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. The key to an authentic Fa'asinomaga Enalaga lies in the careful preparation of each component.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, and set aside to marinate while preparing the other elements.

Step 2: Prep the Taro

Peeled and cube the taro, making sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Rinse them under cold water to remove any excess starch.

Step 3: Aromatic Blend

In a small bowl, combine the coconut milk, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Set this mixture aside.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly translucent.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

Step 6: Simmer the Mixture

Pour the coconut milk mixture over the browned chicken. Add the crushed lemongrass and chilli flakes. Bring to a simmer over low heat. Cover and cook for approximately 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender, stirring occasionally. (Set a cooking timer for accuracy.)

Step 7: Add the Taro

Add the prepared taro cubes to the pot. Stir gently to ensure they are submerged in the flavorful broth. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the taro is tender but not mushy. (Set another cooking timer if needed.)

How to Enjoy

Once the taro and chicken are perfectly cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Squeeze lime juice over the dish for a bright, zesty finish. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander. Fa'asinomaga Enalaga is best enjoyed with loved ones, reminiscent of the communal feasts of Samoa. Serve it hot, accompanied by steamed rice or bread to soak up the luscious sauce. The dish is an exploration of Samoa’s rich culture through its flavors, bringing a piece of the island paradise to your dining table.