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Rourou (Taro Leaves in Coconut Cream)

Fijian rourou recipe — silky taro leaves simmered in rich coconut cream with onion and garlic until meltingly soft, the classic Fijian side dish for any feast.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 30 minCook time
🍽 4Servings
🏷 Fiji KitchenCategory
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Rourou (Taro Leaves in Coconut Cream)

Rourou is one of the most beloved dishes in the Fijian kitchen, made from the tender young leaves of the taro plant. It has been cooked in Fiji for centuries, and no traditional feast is complete without a bowl of it alongside the main dishes.

What makes it great: long, slow simmering transforms the sturdy taro leaves into a silky, spinach-like texture, while coconut cream and a little onion and garlic make them rich and deeply savory. It is the perfect partner for fish, pork, or anything from the lovo.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Wash the taro leaves well and tear them into large pieces.
  2. Place the leaves in a pot with 1/2 cup water, cover, and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring once, until wilted.
  3. Add the coconut cream, onion, garlic, chili, and salt and stir to combine.
  4. Simmer uncovered over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leaves are silky and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Taste for salt and serve warm as a side dish.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Taro leaves must always be cooked thoroughly — never eat them raw, as they contain compounds that can irritate. Frozen taro leaves work well when fresh ones are out of season.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook30 min
Servings4
CategoryFiji Kitchen
PublishedAugust 17, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →