Samoan Panikeke (Fried Coconut Pancakes)

Panikeke, the Samoan pancake, is a distant island cousin of the European pancake, transformed by coconut milk and a bubbling pan of oil. Unlike the thin breakfast pancake, panikeke is dropped into hot oil and puffs into a golden, doughnut-like round. It is the smell of weekend mornings in Samoan homes, and vendors sell it warm from roadside stalls across the islands.

What makes it great: the coconut milk gives the batter a subtle richness, and deep-frying creates a crisp, caramelized shell with a soft, almost custardy center. Eaten warm with a dusting of sugar or a smear of butter, it is simple, sweet comfort that tastes even better with a hot cup of koko Samoa.

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