The
Essence of.....Fiji
An exploration of the world through food and drink
Essence -ial Information
|
UK Tourist Office |
Nottcut House 36 Southwark, Bridge Rd, London SE19EU |
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Currency |
Fijian Dollar |
|
Capital |
Suva |
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Language |
English & Fijian |
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Main Airlines |
No flights direct |
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Flying Time from UK |
approx 26 hrs |
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Visa |
No |
PROFILE
Fiji comprises of 300 mountainous islands where each island is inhabited by an interesting mix of people. Fiji is a multi-cultural society formed particularly from Polynesian, Indian, Melanesian, Chinese and some European influences. The cuisine of Fiji is very complex and reflects culinary influence of different cultures.
The first European to visit Fiji was the Dutch Navigator Abel Tasman in 1643, however is was good old Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame, who first recorded them in the late 1700s. In the early 1800’s the discovery of sandalwood and Sea Cucumbers in the region led to an increase of Western and Eastern traders/seamen. Both commodities were highly prized in the East and of course, western traders got involved in the trading of them in the hope of making fortunes.
Fiji came under British rule in1874. They introduced Cattle to the islands in the late 1800's as well as exotic fruit and spices from the Americas and Africa. They also brought in Indian indentured labourers to work on the sugar plantations which sprung up under British rule. The Indians introduced the use and cultivation of pulses as well as the use of various spices in cooking. Over 60,000 Indians were brought to Fiji as indentured servants before the practice was abolished, resulting in over 40% of today’s population being of Indian descent.
Present day Fiji cuisine is a great mixture of Polynesian, Indian, Melanesian, Chinese and Western cuisine. Some of the most used ingredients in Fiji cuisine are yam, breadfruit, cassava, taro root (dalo) and leaves (rourou). Beef, poultry, pork and seafood are an integral part of Fijian food.
Most of salads, appetizer, soups or beverages are essential. They are prepared with the commonly found fruits such as guava, mango, bananas and pineapple. Alongside with the coconut milk, these fruits can be used to prepare either sweet or salty and spicy dishes.