Everyday meals
Mā'ara (boiled taro mash)
A mash of boiled taro, crushed with butter and coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet texture. A very common family side dish in the Cook Islands, it is served with meats, grilled fish or stews.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Spices & seasoning
Optional extras
Instructions
- Peel the taro and cut it into large chunks. Rinse them under cold water to remove the sticky sap.
- Put the pieces in a saucepan of cold salted water, bring to the boil, then cook for 20 to 25 minutes, until a knife slides through the flesh with no resistance.
- Drain the taro thoroughly and return it to the pan over low heat for 1 minute to evaporate the water.
- Mash the hot taro with a fork or potato masher, together with the butter.
- Gradually add the coconut milk while whisking until you have a soft, smooth mash.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
Variations and tips
Family version. Mix half the taro with sweet potatoes for a sweeter mash that children love.
More ideas
Pōi d'ufi (yam pōi)45 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyManioc bouilli au lait de coco50 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlySweet potato and pumpkin mash40 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyFried taro batter (togi)30 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyTaro and cabbage broth55 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyFried corned beef with onions30 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyStir-fried vegetables in coconut milk35 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendlyPâtes au curry et lait de coco (pâtes au curry)30 min · 4 serv. · budget-friendly
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Cook Islands
Original Ecomely recipe.