Fai’ai Eleni (Samoan Mackerel in Coconut Cream)

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 40 minutes | Serves: 4
Best For: traditional meals, family gatherings, simple nourishing food

A Traditional Samoan Dish Made with Care

Fai’ai Eleni is a traditional Samoan dish made by crushing tinned mackerel and mixing it with coconut cream until it reaches a thick, custard-like consistency before baking. It is then baked gently until set and lightly browned.

Traditionally, this dish was prepared using hands rather than utensils, allowing the cook to feel and crush the fish completely, ensuring the bones were fully broken down. This hands-on method reflects old-school Samoan cooking — practical, intuitive, and deeply connected to the food.

Ingredients for Fai’ai Eleni

• 2 tins mackerel (in oil or tomato sauce) do not drain

• 1 cup coconut cream

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• Salt, to taste

Optional:

• Extra coconut cream (only if mixture looks dry before baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced).

2. Add the mackerel and all the liquid from the tins to a mixing bowl.

3. Crush the mackerel thoroughly until smooth and bone-free.

   • Traditionally, this is done using clean hands, which allows you to feel and break down any remaining bones.

   • Gloves may be used if preferred, especially if sauces irritate the skin.

   • A fork can be used, but take extra care to ensure the texture is completely smooth.

4. Add the onion, coconut cream, and salt, mixing well.

5. Check the consistency — it should resemble a thick custard before baking. Add a small amount of extra coconut cream only if it looks dry.

6. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and smooth the top.

7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

8. Remove the foil and bake for a further 5 minutes to lightly brown the top.

9. Rest briefly, then serve warm.

Helpful Tips

• The mixture should be custard-thick before it goes into the oven

• Do not drain the tins — the liquid adds flavour and moisture

• Crushing by hand helps ensure all bones are fully broken down

Why This Recipe Works

• Authentic Samoan preparation method

• Naturally gluten and dairy free

• Minimal ingredients with rich flavour

• Nourishing, traditional, and practical

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• Fa’alifu Fa’i

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