Fai’ai Mussel (Samoan Baked Mussels in Coconut Cream)

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 35 minutes | Total: 50 minutes | Serves: 4
Best For: traditional meals, family gatherings, simple island cooking

A Traditional Samoan Seafood Dish Made Simply

Fai’ai Mussel is a traditional Samoan dish prepared by first baking mussels in their shells, then finishing them in coconut cream until rich and thick. This two-step method allows the mussels to release excess liquid before the coconut cream is added, ensuring the final dish is full of flavour and not watery.

It’s simple, hands-on island cooking — minimal ingredients, careful preparation, and food meant to be shared and enjoyed together, traditionally eaten with taro or green banana.

Ingredients for Fai’ai Mussel

• Fresh mussels, as many as desired

• 1 cup coconut cream

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• Salt, to taste

Optional:

• Extra coconut cream, if needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

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

2. Clean the mussels thoroughly, discarding any that are cracked or do not close when tapped.

3. Open the mussels, discarding the empty shell and keeping the half-shell with the mussel still attached.

4. Arrange the mussels in a deep baking dish or deep roasting tray in a single layer.

5. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the mussels are cooked and have released excess liquid.

6. Carefully tip out and discard the liquid from the dish. This step is important to prevent the final dish from becoming watery.

7. Prepare the coconut mixture by mixing the coconut cream, onion, and salt in a bowl.

8. Pour the coconut cream mixture evenly over the mussels.

9. Return to the oven and bake for a further 15 minutes, until the coconut cream is bubbling and thickened.

10. Remove from the oven and rest briefly before serving warm.

Helpful Tips

• Use a deep dish to contain liquid and bubbling coconut cream

• Always drain the mussel liquid before adding coconut cream

• Full-fat coconut cream gives the best flavour and texture

Why This Recipe Works

• Traditional Samoan two-step cooking method

• Naturally gluten and dairy free

• Minimal ingredients with rich flavour

• Simple, nourishing, and deeply satisfying

Explore More Pacific Island Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also love:

• Fai’ai Eleni (Samoan Mackerel in Coconut Cream)

• Palusami (Lu’au)

• Fa’alifu Fa’i