Pom

Introduction to Pom

Pom is a traditional Surinamese dish that is often enjoyed during festive occasions and Sunday dinners. The dish has a rich history, reflective of Suriname's diverse cultural influences, blending flavors and cooking techniques from the indigenous people, African slaves, and European colonizers, particularly the Dutch. Pom is a casserole-style dish that features pom tajer, a tropical root vegetable, along with marinated chicken, citrus, and an array of spices. This dish is renowned for its savory flavor and moist, satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Pom tajer (or arrowleaf elephant ear root) - 1,5 kg
• Chicken (preferably thigh sections) - 1.5 kg
• Oranges - 3
• Lemons - 2
• Onions - 2 large
• Butter - 150 grams
• Olive oil - 4 tablespoons

Spices and Seasonings

• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Nutmeg - 1 teaspoon
• Bay leaf - 2
• Curry powder - 1 tablespoon
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Clove powder - 1/2 teaspoon

Preparation Items

• Mixer or grater
• Citrus juicer
• Large baking dish
• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls

Preparation

Prepare the Pom Tajer

Start by peeling the pom tajer roots. This can be a somewhat difficult task due to their tough outer skin, so it is advised to use a sturdy peeler or a sharp knife. Once peeled, grate the roots using a mixer or a grater to achieve a coarse texture. Place the grated pom tajer in a large bowl and set aside.

Marinate the Chicken

Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry. In a bowl, mix the juice of the oranges and lemons with salt, black pepper, curry powder, and bay leaves. Marinate the chicken in this citrus mixture for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking Process

Sautéing the Aromatics

In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and aromatic. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Dish

In the bowl with the grated pom tajer, add the sautéed onions, nutmeg, clove powder, and sugar. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (approximately 350°F). Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade and lightly brown them in the same frying pan. Add a portion of the grated pom tajer mixture to the bottom of the greased baking dish as a base layer. Place the browned chicken pieces on top, and cover with the remaining pom tajer mixture.

Finalize by adding slices of butter on top before covering the dish with foil.

Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes. You can set a cooking timer to ensure careful timing. After 90 minutes, remove the foil and allow the dish to bake for another 30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and slightly crispy.

Enjoying Pom

Pom is best served hot, straight from the oven. It pairs excellently with rice and side salads, balancing its rich and zestful flavors. For a more traditional take, enjoy it with a side of cassava bread or a fresh cucumber salsa. Each bite is a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of Surinamese culture and cuisine.

This dish is not only a delight to enjoy with family, but it also makes for a comforting meal that could bring a sense of warmth and home to any table. Its unique blend of textures and flavors keeps it a beloved staple across generations.