Tahitian Mango Poʻe

Discover the Exotic Flavor of Tahitian Mango Poʻe

The Tahitian Mango Poʻe is a traditional dessert from the beautiful islands of Tahiti. This delightful treat is cherished across French Polynesia for its unique blend of tropical flavors and its beautifully rich and sticky consistency. Poʻe is a quintessential dish made from starchy fruit or root vegetables, such as bananas or mangoes, traditionally served during festivities and family gatherings.

The name "Poʻe" comes from its unique texture, which is somewhere between a pudding and a jelly, making it a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth. Historically, this dish was wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven, adding to its exotic charm. The mango version of this dish brings in the luscious sweetness and vibrant color of tropical mangoes, creating a truly irresistible dessert.

Ingredients for Tahitian Mango Poʻe

• Mango - 4 ripe, peeled, and cubed
• Tapioca starch - 1 cup
• Ripe bananas - 2, mashed
• Coconut milk - 1 can (400 ml)
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preparing the Mango Oasis

Begin by taking the mangoes and cutting them into small cubes. Ensure they are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor. In a blender, puree the mango cubes to create a smooth consistency.

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mango puree, mashed bananas, and sugar. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved.

Add the tapioca starch and vanilla extract to the mango-banana mixture. Gradually pour in the coconut milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Cooking the Poʻe

Pour the mixture into a medium-sized pot and place it over low heat. Continuously stir the mixture while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the pot. This process will take about 20-25 minutes, and you'll know it's done when the mixture becomes thick and glossy, reaching that perfect Poʻe texture. For a precise cooking time, use a cooking timer.

Setting the Poʻe

Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the poʻe into a greased baking dish, which will provide it with the traditional block form. Allow it to cool completely, which will set its shape and texture.

How to Serve and Enjoy Tahitian Mango Poʻe

The Tahitian Mango Poʻe is best served chilled. Once it's completely set, cut it into squares. Traditionally, it's topped with a light drizzle of coconut milk before serving, enhancing the creamy texture and tropical flavor profile.

This dessert can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat or paired with other tropical fruits for an exotic dessert platter. To truly savor the mango essence, accompany it with a scoop of coconut ice cream, which provides a delightful contrast of warm and cold sensations.

Experience a taste of paradise with every bite of this mango-infused disc, making any occasion feel like a tropical celebration.