coconut pesto

Rourou Recipe (Taro Leaves in Coconut Cream)

Rourou is a classic Pacific dish made with young taro leaves cooked in coconut cream until tender and rich. This recipe keeps the flavors straightforward and home-style, with optional onion, garlic, tomato, chili, or canned meat depending on how you like to serve it.

If you enjoy this kind of recipe, you may also want to try our chicken curry or island style beef curry.

Taro Leaves
Taro Leaves
Taro is one of the favorite food in the pacific islands. The root itself is cooked and so are the leaves. The leaves is what we make rourou from and it’s very easy to make. Rourou recipe ingredients
  • young taro leaves (a medium bowl full should do)
  • coconut cream – either from fresh coconuts or canned
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • salt
  • canned meat (optional)
  • chilly (optional)
  • tomato (optional)
Rourou with canned mutton
Rourou with canned mutton
Preparation Remove the stems of the taro leaves (cut with knife) so only leaves remain. Wash and cut thinly. Can also just tear the leaves as it’s added to the pot. Boil 2 cups of water and coconut cream. Add salt, garlic, onion, chilly, tomato and canned meat and finally add the taro leaves. Bring to boil for about 15 – 20 minutes with lid off. Keep stirring once in a while. Taro leaves contains harmless acidity and should be boiled for at least 10 minutes so that it does not itch the throat. Good taro leaves should feel soft. Taro leaves are high in vitamins as well. If there aren’t any taro leaves available, many type of vegetable leaves could be used like cabbage, spinach, etc.
Spinach rourou - a good substitute for taro leaves is spinach!
Spinach rourou – a good substitute for taro leaves is spinach!

Helpful Tips

  • Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
  • Use enough cooking time for the main ingredient to reach the right texture.
  • Serve with rice, vegetables, or another simple side to round out the meal.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Many savory dishes hold up well and can be reheated or served later.

How should I serve it?
Serve it with a simple side that matches the style of the dish.

Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, spice, or acidity to suit your preference.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories115 kcal
Fat8.2 g
Saturated Fat4.8 g
Carbohydrates45 g
Protein14.2 g
Sodium20140 mg
Cholesterol20.4 mg

Comments

One response to “Rourou Recipe (Taro Leaves in Coconut Cream)”

  1. […] Lamb Rourou served with Boiled Cassava (FJD16.95) – This dish, reminiscent of Filipino laing but with its own twist, featured taro leaves cooked in coconut milk. The result was a rich and meaty flavour, distinct from the spicier and creamier Filipino version. Chunks of lamb with bones added depth to the dish, and the boiled cassava was both hearty and nostalgic. […]

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