Tongan Taro Pizza

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Canadian pizza crust is replaced with taro, a popular ingredient in Tongan cuisine. The toppings are also modified to include Tongan flavors such as coconut milk, fresh pineapple, shredded pork, and Tongan chili. These changes infuse the pizza with a tropical twist and create a unique fusion of Canadian and Tongan culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Pictou County Pizza, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) taro, peeled and grated 2 cups (300g) taro, peeled and grated
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (150g) shredded cooked pork 1 cup (150g) shredded cooked pork
• 1 cup (150g) fresh pineapple chunks 1 cup (150g) fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Tongan chili sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) Tongan chili sauce
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 10g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the grated taro, coconut milk, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3.
   Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until it becomes smooth.
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough into a round shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone.
6. 6.
   Spread the Tongan chili sauce evenly over the dough.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
8. 8.
   Top the pizza with shredded pork and fresh pineapple chunks.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
11. 11.
    Slice and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Taro — Make sure to peel and grate the taro just before using it to prevent discoloration.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Tongan chili sauce — Adjust the amount of chili sauce according to your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• If taro is not available, you can substitute it with yam or sweet potato for a similar texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced bell peppers, red onions, or cooked shrimp to add variety to your Tongan Taro Pizza.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the shredded pork and add extra vegetables like sliced mushrooms or zucchini.
• Serve the pizza with a side of Tongan-style pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
• Leftover pizza can be reheated in the oven or enjoyed cold for a tasty snack.

Serving advice

Serve Tongan Taro Pizza hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into slices and enjoy it as a main course or share it as an appetizer during gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing tropical drink to complete the Tongan culinary experience.

Presentation advice

Present the Tongan Taro Pizza on a wooden cutting board or a vibrant Tongan-inspired platter. Garnish it with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. The contrasting colors of the toppings will make the pizza visually appealing.