Po'e

Po'e is a traditional Polynesian dessert, specifically from the Tahiti and the Society Islands. The dish is a type of pudding made from bananas or sometimes other fruits like papaya, mango or pumpkin. The fruit is mashed and mixed with coconut milk, then sweetened with sugar or honey. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and baked in an umu, a traditional Polynesian earth oven.

Etymology

The term "po'e" comes from the Tahitian language, although its exact etymology is not known. It is a common term for this type of dessert in the Society Islands.

Preparation and Serving

To prepare po'e, ripe bananas are first peeled and mashed until they form a thick paste. This paste is then mixed with fresh coconut milk and sweetened with sugar or honey. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves, which have been softened over an open flame to make them pliable. The wrapped packages are then placed in an umu, or traditional earth oven, and baked until the pudding is firm and the flavors have melded together.

Once cooked, po'e can be served either hot or cold. It is often cut into squares for serving, and may be topped with additional coconut milk or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Cultural Significance

Po'e is a staple dessert in Polynesian cuisine, particularly in Tahiti and the Society Islands. It is often served at traditional feasts and celebrations, and is a common offering at tourist resorts and restaurants offering local cuisine.

See Also

• Polynesian cuisine
• Tahitian cuisine
• Umu

References

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