Tongan Cassava Chips (Manioke Chips)

Manioke, or cassava, is one of the most important root crops in Tonga, and its crispiest form is the humble chip. Vendors at Tongan markets and bus stops fry thin cassava slices until golden and pack them into paper cones with a sprinkle of chili salt. They are the island’s answer to potato chips, with a denser, nuttier crunch.

What makes it great: shatteringly crisp on the outside, soft and starchy within, with a chili-lime salt that makes every handful moreish. They are wonderful with a cold drink, a bowl of coconut dip, or just eaten straight from the paper cone.

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