Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific with a cuisine influenced by its tropical surroundings. One popular dish is “Lap Lap,” a delicious root vegetable pudding. Here’s a concise recipe for Vanuatu Lap Lap:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds taro, yam, or sweet potato, peeled and grated
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 1 cup coconut cream
• Salt to taste
• Banana leaves or aluminum foil for wrapping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated root vegetables, grated coconut, chopped onion, chopped tomato, and coconut cream. Mix well to combine.
3. Season the mixture with salt to taste.
4. Lay out a piece of banana leaf or aluminum foil on a flat surface.
5. Spoon a portion of the mixture onto the center of the leaf or foil, then fold and wrap it tightly into a neat package. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.
6. Place the wrapped Lap Lap parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the Lap Lap is cooked through.
7. Remove the Lap Lap from the oven and carefully unwrap the parcels.
8. Serve the Lap Lap warm, either as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled fish or meat.

Enjoy the flavorful and comforting Vanuatu Lap Lap!