Lovo Lomo

Introduction to Lovo Lomo

The traditional Fijian dish known as Lovo Lomo is a delectable feast that combines both cultural and culinary significance. Known for its communal and celebratory nature, this dish is traditionally cooked in an underground oven called a 'lovo'. The ‘lovo’ method is an ancient cooking technique where food is wrapped and steamed, providing a unique flavor that results from the earth's natural steam and the aromatic leaves used during the preparation. This method is similar to the Polynesian ‘umu’ and Hawaiian ‘imu’, showing the deep cultural connections across the Pacific islands.

The word ‘lovo’ means 'a feast cooked in the earth' and it epitomizes not only a meal but a gathering where family and friends come together to enjoy the fruits of their labor. On the other hand, ‘lomo’ refers to the style of preparation, often involving marination and specific spices that heighten the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients for Lovo Lomo

1. Pork - 2 kg of boneless pork shoulder, preferably
2. Banana Leaves - used for wrapping
3. Taro Leaves - used for added aroma
4. Coconut Milk - 500 ml
5. Salt - 2 tablespoons
6. Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
7. Ginger - 50g, finely chopped
8. Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
9. Lime Juice - From 3 fresh limes
10. Soy Sauce - 100 ml
11. Chili Peppers - 2 finely chopped (optional)
12. Cassava - 1 kg, peeled and cut into chunks
13. Sweet Potato - 1 kg, peeled and cubed

Preparation of Lovo Lomo

Marinating the Pork

Start by marinating the pork. In a large bowl, combine salt, garlic, ginger, onion, lime juice, and soy sauce. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add chili peppers to the marinade. Mix these well and then immerse the pork into the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for more intense flavors.

Preparing the Underground Oven (Lovo)

The authenticity of Lovo Lomo lies in its unique cooking method. If you would like to experience this traditional cooking style, follow these steps for creating a lovo:

1. Dig a hole approximately 1 meter deep and 1.5 meters wide in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
2. Line the bottom with stones. These stones will conduct heat, so ensure they are evenly layered.
3. Create a fire over these stones using wood, and let it burn until the stones become red hot. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the conditions.

If an outdoor setup is not feasible, a conventional oven will suffice. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cooking Process

Wrapping the Ingredients

Once the pork has been marinated, prepare to encase it in banana leaves. Lay a large sheet of the banana leaves on a clean surface and layer it with coconut milk. Place the marinated pork in the center and wrap it thoroughly, securing the ends with kitchen twine. Repeat this wrapping with taro leaves for added aroma.

Cooking in the Lovo

If you are using an outdoor lovo, place the wrapped pork onto the hot stones and cover it with more banana leaves and a layer of soil to trap the steam. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 hours.

If using a conventional oven, place the wrapped parcels in a roasting pan and cover them with foil. Bake for 3-4 hours until the pork is thoroughly cooked and tender.

Cooking the Side Dishes

While the pork cooks, prepare the cassava and sweet potatoes. Boil cassava until tender, and season lightly with salt. Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven with a drizzle of coconut milk for about 40 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown and soft.

Serving and Enjoying Lovo Lomo

The moment has finally arrived to relish this culinary masterpiece. Carefully unwrap the cooked pork from its leafy cocoon, revealing its tenderness and the rich infusion of flavors. Arrange servings of pork with sides of boiled cassava and roasted sweet potatoes on each plate. The earthy smokiness, achieved from the underground cooking process, harmoniously blends with the sweetness of coconut milk, creating an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

For an authentic Fijian experience, use your hands to enjoy the meal, celebrating unity and tradition, enjoying every morsel amidst laughter and camaraderie. As you savor each bite, let the flavors transport you to the sunny shores of the Pacific islands, where food is more than sustenance—it's the celebration of life itself.

Tips for a Memorable Experience

• Pair your Lovo Lomo with traditional Fijian beverages like kava for a complete cultural immersion.
• Engage in Fijian music and storytelling while enjoying your feast, embodying the true essence of the island lifestyle.
• Remember that the joy of Lovo Lomo is not just in its preparation or flavor, but in the shared experience it cultivates within the community.