Vanuatuan-style Baked Bread

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Arab Taboon is transformed into a Vanuatuan-style baked bread by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The original Taboon is typically made with wheat flour and water, while the Vanuatuan version includes coconut milk and tropical fruits to add a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Taboon, so you can check it out.

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced tropical fruits (such as pineapple or mango), for garnish 1/2 cup (75g) diced tropical fruits (such as pineapple or mango), for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine the water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Gradually add the coconut milk and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Garnish the top of the bread with diced tropical fruits.
8. 8.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure it is well mixed.
• Tropical fruits — Use fresh and ripe tropical fruits for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced tropical flavor, you can add a teaspoon of grated lime zest to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to your liking.
• Serve the bread warm with a spread of coconut butter for an extra indulgence.

Serving advice

Serve the Vanuatuan-style Baked Bread as a side dish with traditional Vanuatuan meals, or enjoy it on its own as a delicious snack.

Presentation advice

Slice the bread and arrange it on a platter, garnished with additional diced tropical fruits for an eye-catching presentation.