Tongan-style Raclette with Taro and Coconut

Ingredients

In this Tongan-style Raclette recipe, we have replaced the traditional potatoes with taro, a staple root vegetable in Tongan cuisine. Additionally, we have incorporated coconut milk to infuse the dish with a tropical flavor profile, which is a departure from the traditional Swiss recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Raclette, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) Raclette cheese 500g (1.1 lb) Raclette cheese
• 1 kg (2.2 lb) taro, peeled and cubed 1 kg (2.2 lb) taro, peeled and cubed
• 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk 400ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 20g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Steam the taro cubes until tender, approximately 20 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat until warm.
3. 3.
   Add the Raclette cheese to a Raclette grill or a heatproof dish and melt until gooey and bubbly.
4. 4.
   Arrange the steamed taro on a serving platter.
5. 5.
   Pour the warm coconut milk over the taro.
6. 6.
   Carefully pour the melted Raclette cheese over the taro and coconut milk.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the Tongan-style Raclette with taro and coconut.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Taro — Make sure to peel and cube the taro before steaming it to ensure even cooking. Test the tenderness of the taro with a fork before removing it from the steamer.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find Raclette cheese, you can substitute it with Gruyère or Emmental cheese for a similar melting quality.
• For added flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of the melted cheese before serving.
• Serve Tongan-style Raclette with a side of fresh tropical fruits like pineapple or mango to enhance the tropical experience.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the melted cheese.
• Experiment with different toppings like crispy bacon or sautéed onions to add extra layers of flavor to the dish.

Serving advice

Serve Tongan-style Raclette with taro and coconut as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad. The creamy and cheesy taro pairs perfectly with the crispness of the salad, creating a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Tongan-style Raclette by arranging the steamed taro cubes on a large platter. Pour the warm coconut milk over the taro and then drizzle the melted Raclette cheese on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and some chopped herbs for an appealing and appetizing presentation.