Lu‘au Ulo (Samoan Taro Leaves Cooked in Coconut Cream)

A Simple Home-Style Way to Enjoy Lu‘au

Lu‘au Ulo is a stovetop version of lu‘au that many families prepare when an oven or umu isn’t needed. It’s simple, practical, and often made in everyday home kitchens.

Instead of baking, the taro leaves are cooked down in a pot, then finished gently in coconut cream. Like many Samoan dishes, the method may vary between households — this version reflects how lu‘au ulo is commonly prepared in many families today.

A Cultural Note

Lu‘au Ulo refers to lu‘au cooked in a pot (ulo). While palusami is often baked or steamed, this method uses stovetop cooking and relies on timing, heat, and feel rather than strict measurements.

In Samoan households, leaves may be chopped finely or left in longer strips depending on preference. Both approaches are common and accepted.

Ingredients

• Taro leaves (lu‘au), washed and stems removed

• Water (just enough to cover the leaves)

• 1 can coconut cream

• 1 small onion, finely sliced

• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the leaves
   Stack the taro leaves neatly, then roll them up tightly. Slice the rolls into long strips.
   (Some families chop the leaves more finely — either method works.)

2. Cook the leaves
   Place the sliced leaves into a pot and add just enough water to cover them.
   Bring to a boil and cook until the leaves soften and most of the water has evaporated.

3. Add the coconut mixture
   Once the leaves are fully cooked and soft, add coconut cream, onion, and salt.
   Stir gently and bring to a boil.

4. Finish with residual heat
   Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and allow the remaining heat to finish cooking the lu‘au.

5. Serve
   Serve warm, allowing the flavours to settle before eating.

Helpful Tips

• Leaves must be fully cooked before adding coconut cream.

• Thicker or older leaves may need extra time.

• Letting the pot rest after boiling helps prevent the coconut from splitting.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple stovetop method using everyday cookware

• Minimal ingredients with deep cultural meaning

• Adaptable to different family preferences

• Perfect for both weeknights and shared meals

What to Serve with Lu‘au Ulo

Lu‘au Ulo is commonly enjoyed with:

• Taro

• Banana

• Breadfruit

• Steamed rice

Explore More Comforting Family Meals

If you loved this recipe, you may also enjoy:

• Palusami (Lu‘au)

• Panipopo

• Pacific Island & Samoan Recipes

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35–45 mins | Total Time: 50–60 mins | Serves: 4–6
Best For: Family meals, simple cultural cooking, everyday island comfort food